#uk-military-deployment

#uk-military-deployment

The Arctic is strategically vital - packed with shipping lanes and untapped resources. Britain is sending a clear warning to Moscow and rivals: stay out or face serious consequences. The warships will exercise with NATO partners, boosting readiness and deterrence against any threats. Analysts say this raises the stakes in Arctic geopolitics and proves Britain can project power far from home waters.

The defence secretary, John Healey, announced the deployment of a small number of planning officers, including a senior commander, at an event on Monday night. He said the UK would play an anchor role. Ten days ago the foreign secretary, Yvette Cooper, said the UK had no plans to send soldiers to Gaza. The commander will work as a deputy in the American-led civil military coordination centre in Israel.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been invited but said he is ready to join. Asked if troops could deploy if a deal was reached in the next two weeks, Healey said: "If President Trump can broker a peace, then we will be ready to help secure that peace". But he added that Ukrainians must be the "people who will decide how and what" is negotiated in any peace talks.