The United Kingdom has announced that it will be sending approximately 20,000 troops to participate in NATO exercises aimed at deterring Russia, under the name Steadfast Defender 24. This comes as tensions between Russia and NATO continue to escalate. The UK Ministry of Defense stated that these exercises will be one of the largest since the end of the Cold War.
The British military will join forces with over 30 NATO allies and Sweden to counter the Russian threat, according to the statement. The maneuvers will involve 16,000 soldiers from the British Army’s ground forces, who will be stationed in Eastern Europe from February to June.
In addition, the strike group, led by the aircraft carrier Queen Elizabeth, along with frigates and destroyers, will be deployed in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Norwegian and Baltic seas. The British Royal Air Force will also participate in Steadfast Defender.
This announcement follows recent comments from the German Ministry of Defense regarding a “secret plan” for war with Russia. It is worth noting that Russian paratroopers and special forces have reportedly begun training with NATO weapons.
The UK’s decision to deploy a significant number of troops underscores the growing concern over Russia’s aggressive actions in the region. NATO’s response to these exercises and the ongoing tensions between Russia and the Western alliance will undoubtedly have significant implications for global security.
