Britain is accelerating preparations for a possible deployment of a peacekeeping force in Ukraine if a peace agreement is reached with Russia, the British website iPaper reported in an exclusive story, amid signs of progress in U.S.-led negotiations.

The report quoted Defence Secretary John Healey as saying the UK was “raising readiness levels” in anticipation of deploying ground troops and fighter aircraft, adding that funding was being directed to ensure the armed forces are ready once a peace deal is reached.