LONDON (Reuters – Britain announced Monday that it would supply Ukraine with anti-tank arms to assist it against a possible invasion. The announcement came amid a confrontation with Russia, which has positioned its troops at the Ukrainian border.

Russia has been accused of preparing for an attack on Ukraine.

Moscow has denied any intention to attack but said that it may take unspecified military actions if the West does not agree to certain demands. These include banning Ukraine joining NATO. The talks last week did not lead to any progress. To help protect its interests, Kyiv asked for weapons from the West.

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace stated that the UK had made the decision to provide Ukraine light anti-armour defensive weapons systems. He also said Monday’s delivery of the first system was complete and that training would be provided by a few British personnel for a brief period.

While he didn’t specify which type of weapon was being sent to him, he stated: “They aren’t strategic weapons and pose not threat to Russia. They will be used in self defense.

“These are short-range ….. However, it would still make people stop and think about what they’re doing. And if tanks were sent into Ukraine to invade it, they would become part of the defense system.”

Wallace stated that he invited Sergei Shoigu, the Russian Defense Minister to London to discuss the crisis. However, he was unsure if the Russians would agree.

The current gap is large but can be bridged. It is my hope that diplomacy prevails. It is President (Vladimir) Putin’s choice,” Wallace said.