A British general has taken command of the multinational force being prepared for deployment to Ukraine if fighting with Russia comes to an end, as Western allies continue planning for the
country's long-term security.
Lieutenant General Tom Bateman officially assumed leadership of the Multinational Force Ukraine (MNF-U) during a handover ceremony in Paris on Friday, replacing his French predecessor as part of a planned rotation between the UK and France.
The appointment follows renewed commitments from Britain and France to lead the Coalition of the Willing, a group of nations preparing security arrangements that could be put in place after a future peace agreement.
The coalition has also announced plans to hold military exercises in the coming months to rehearse how the force would deploy once hostilities cease.
UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said Britain's commitment to Ukraine "remains steadfast" and described the multinational force as evidence of the UK's continuing leadership in supporting Kyiv.
"The frontline in Ukraine is the frontline for our freedom and democracy," he said.
If a peace settlement is reached, the force would aim to strengthen Ukraine's security by helping protect its airspace and maritime routes while assisting in rebuilding the country's armed forces. Plans also include establishing a headquarters in Kyiv.
Military officials say the force has two principal objectives: reassuring Ukraine against future Russian aggression and regenerating its military through training, equipment and long-term support.
They argue that security patrols over the Black Sea and in Ukrainian airspace would help restore commercial transport, encourage foreign investment and support the country's economic recovery.
Lieutenant General Bateman, who has served for more than three decades in the British Army, previously commanded the UK's Standing Joint Force Headquarters and the 1st Division.
Speaking after taking command, he said the multinational force would continue working with Ukraine and international partners to prepare for "a just and lasting peace".
He added that the coalition's work reflected the participating nations' "enduring commitment" to Ukraine's sovereignty and long-term security while Russia continues missile and drone attacks across the country.
The transfer of command comes after coalition leaders declared the force "ready to operate" at a recent summit, although any deployment remains contingent on an end to the conflict. Britain and France will continue to share leadership of the multinational mission under their existing agreement.
