British troops should be sent to Ukraine as part of a post-war peacekeeping force, former defence secretaries have urged.

It comes as Sir Keir Starmer is expected to visit the country for the first time since becoming Prime Minister in the coming weeks.

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s president, reportedly told journalists that the pair would discuss the possibility of Britain’s Armed Forces being part of a post-war peacekeeping force.

Ahead of the visit, Grant Shapps and Sir Gavin Williamson, who both served as defence secretary, urged Sir Keir and John Healey, the current holder of the role, to make the commitment.

Mr Shapps, Mr Healey’s predecessor, told The Telegraph: “British troops contributing to a post-war peacekeeping force would undoubtedly be a welcome move, but it barely scratches the surface of what Ukraine truly needs.

“This is a nation fighting not just for its survival but for the values of freedom and sovereignty that underpin global security.

“The UK has been at the forefront of supporting Ukraine against Putin’s barbaric and illegal invasion, and we must now lead in offering a bold and unwavering path to Nato membership.

“Anything less would be a betrayal of Ukraine’s courage and the principles we claim to stand for.”