A spokesman for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said a “significant number” of countries will contribute troops to the peacekeeping force in Ukraine, Sky News reported.

He said “more than 30” countries were now expected to take part in the coalition, but did not say which others had joined since Saturday.

The interlocutor added: “The capacity to participate will vary, but it will be a significant force, with a significant number of countries contributing troops and a large group contributing in other ways.”

The source did not specify which countries had agreed to join the peacekeeping force, which will include Britain and France.

Russia has repeatedly said it will not allow soldiers from NATO countries to be stationed in Ukraine.

Asked whether British troops would be allowed to return fire on Russian troops, he said, “It is worth remembering that Russia did not ask Ukraine when it sent its troops there.”