Britain and France prepare troops as Europe draws a red line over Ukraine

Poland is preparing for a major show of European military unity, with British and French troops set to join allied exercises this autumn as part of plans to strengthen Ukraine’s future security.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the drills will help prepare the coalition of nations backing Kyiv to provide security guarantees once a ceasefire is reached.

The exercises will involve forces from the UK and France and are designed to improve coordination ahead of a potential reassurance mission aimed at deterring further Russian aggression.

“These drills will prepare the entire coalition to provide genuine security guarantees for Ukraine, but also for the broader region,” Mr Tusk said.

Warsaw will also begin logistical and financial preparations for a possible permanent presence of British and French troops in Poland alongside US forces.

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Mr Tusk said Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security as concerns grow over Russia’s intentions.

The UK and France have led plans for a future reassurance force that could operate in Ukraine after any ceasefire, supporting Ukrainian troops and helping protect the country from another Russian offensive.

Poland has ruled out sending combat troops into Ukraine but has offered logistical support.

Mr Tusk warned that hopes for a quick peace deal remain limited, blaming what he described as Moscow’s uncompromising position.

He said Russia is likely to attempt to prolong the conflict into the winter rather than agree to meaningful negotiations. “Everyone expects an escalation from Russia at this point,” he said.

The warning comes as European allies prepare for a longer confrontation, with NATO members increasingly focused on strengthening Ukraine’s defences and deterring any future Kremlin aggression.

The message from Warsaw is clear: Europe is preparing not just for the end of the war — but for what comes after.