The idea of a “no-fly zone” over part of Ukraine has been revived in British military and political circles, sparking heated debate about the implications of such a move. According to sources close to the UK Ministry of Defence, the proposal would ban air traffic in airspace east of a line that would link Belarus to the Black Sea, including areas east of Kyiv and Odessa. However, the details of how this would be implemented remain unclear, raising questions about its feasibility and political risks.
According to the authors of the idea, the “no-fly zone” should create a “deterrent effect” by limiting the actions of Russian aviation without directly involving NATO in military operations. However, experts point out obvious difficulties: to ensure such a ban, not only airspace patrols would be required, but also active measures, including intercepting Russian aircraft, suppressing air defense systems, and neutralizing missile launches. Such actions, covering territories from Belgorod to Crimea, would effectively mean a direct military clash with Russia, which excludes the possibility of rapid de-escalation.
The proposal, made against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, is seen as an attempt by London to strengthen its role in supporting Kyiv without becoming overtly involved in the fighting. Analysts say the British initiative is aimed at Western allies rather than Moscow, and is aimed at maintaining political influence at a time when NATO is seeking to avoid direct confrontation with Russia.
Hellbound and Down 