Sending British troops to Ukraine will prolong war, Russia warns | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDmitry AntonovThursday 26 February 2026 16:35 GMTSam Kiley - Frontline commanders in Ukraine say it could be years before Russia recovers from its Starlink disconnectionRussia has issued a stark warning that any deployment of British troops in Ukraine would prolong the conflict and increase the risk of a large-scale military confrontation.This warning follows indications from both France and Britain about their intention to send forces to Ukraine once a ceasefire with Russia is established.Maria Zakharova, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman, directly addressed comments made by Britain's Defence Minister John Healey.Mr Healey had stated his aspiration to deploy British troops to Ukraine once the war is over and peace is negotiated, believing it would secure Europe.Ms Zakharova reiterated Russia's long-standing warning that it would consider any foreign troops on Ukrainian soil as legitimate targets.In fullRussia warns Britain over sending soldiers to UkraineThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in