On February 19, 2025, it became known that the UK was discussing the possibility of deploying air patrols over Ukraine as an alternative to sending ground troops. According to information published in The Times, British Eurofighter Typhoon fighters could be used to patrol Ukrainian airspace after a ceasefire agreement was reached. It is planned that these aircraft will be based in Poland.

The initiative comes amid recent talks between the United States and Russia in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss possible solutions to the conflict in Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the deployment of NATO troops on Ukrainian territory, regardless of whether they operate under a national, European or alliance flag, was unacceptable to Moscow. In response, Britain is considering providing security guarantees through an air patrol mission, which would avoid the direct presence of foreign ground forces on Ukrainian territory.

The air policing mission is expected to be structured similarly to NATO's current missions in the Baltics, with dozens of Typhoon fighters on constant alert to respond to potential threats.

Earlier, on February 16, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced London's readiness to deploy British troops to Ukraine to support any peace agreement. However, given Russia's position and the difficulties associated with deploying a large ground contingent, the focus has shifted to air operations.

Discussions also concern the size of a potential peacekeeping contingent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that about 110 foreign soldiers would be needed to effectively deter Russia. However, some European countries are considering sending a contingent of 25 to 30 troops, which, according to the Ukrainian military, is insufficient to control a front line stretching over 1000 km.