Former MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove has cautioned that discussions about deploying UK troops to Ukraine are "a bit premature" whilst peace negotiations continue.
Speaking on GB News, Dearlove expressed concern about the lack of clarity regarding potential troop deployments.
"I think, personally, this is a bit premature, because the negotiations, such as they are carrying on over the issue of a ceasefire haven't really made any significant progress yet," he said.
The ex-intelligence chief questioned what role British forces might play in Ukraine.
Former head of MI6 Sir Richard Dearlove has claimed that it is 'premature' to discuss UK troops in Ukraine
PA / GB News
"It's dangerous to get involved in something where we're not really clear what it is," he warned.
Dearlove elaborated on his concerns about the undefined nature of any potential deployment: "I'm not quite sure what this actually means: does it mean peacekeeping?"
"What role are these troops going to have?" he added, comparing the situation to existing peacekeeping missions.
He referenced the demilitarised zone between North and South Korea as an example where peacekeepers serve as "purely observers and reporters" with "a massive armed encampment on either side of the border."
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Keir Starmer has said Labour's commitment to the UK's Armed Forces remains steadfastPA"I'm a bit worried that this is not really identified, it's not really detailed, it's not really pinned down as to what it's all about," Dearlove stated.
He dismissed suggestions that current tensions represent a revival of the Cold War.
"I don't think it's the revival of the Cold War to that extent. I think the concept seems to have changed to the extent that we're now thinking about conventional conflict on the European continent," he explained.
"I don't think France are exaggerating a threat, there is concern," he said.
Dearlove told GB News that he can 'understand' why Poland and Germany are 'reluctant' when it comes to Ukraine
GB News
Dearlove expressed cautious approval for the current Government's focus on security matters.
"I'm pleased to see that the Government, and I disagree with them on a lot of things, are paying a lot of attention to defence and security at the moment," he said.
He welcomed the administration's efforts to stimulate public discourse on these issues: "At least they are encouraging debate and growing awareness of the situation," Dearlove noted.
He also commented on the reluctance of some European nations to form a coalition for Ukraine.
"I can understand why Poland and Germany are reluctant," he added, referring to discussions about forming a "coalition of the willing."
