Speculation Shut Down

On the first day of the Tory Party Conference in Manchester, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has denied rumors that British troops would be deployed to Ukraine to train President Zelensky's army or engage in combat against Russia anytime soon.

Shapps' Suggestion

Last night, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps hinted that British troops could potentially be sent to Ukraine to train Russian soldiers.

Sunak's Response

During a visit to the Burnley Boys and Girls Club, Prime Minister Sunak dismissed the idea, stating that no British soldiers will be heading to the war-torn region in the near future. He clarified that current training efforts are taking place within the UK.

World War Three Warning

Ex-Russian president Dmitry Medvedev warned that Defence Secretary Shapps' comment could escalate tensions and lead to a Third World War.

Training in the UK

Since the start of 2022, over 20,000 Ukrainian recruits have received training in the UK. However, NATO members have avoided conducting training programs in Ukraine due to the potential risk of getting involved in armed conflict with Russia. Shapps has discussed the possibility of increasing training efforts in Ukraine and has called for British defense firms to establish a presence in the country.

NATO Membership

Furthermore, Shapps revealed that he has spoken with Army chiefs and President Zelensky regarding the Royal Navy's support in defending commercial vessels in the Black Sea. Britain is also exploring ways to assist Ukraine in preparing for NATO membership.