UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged Donald Trump to ensure support for European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine from the US, stating that this is the only way to deter Russia from a new attack and secure lasting peace.
According to Reuters, in response to a question about what a US security guarantee would entail and the role of peacekeeping troops, Starmer mentioned that discussions are still in the early stages. However, he noted that following an emergency meeting of European leaders in Paris, it became clear that leaders need to increase defense spending and take greater responsibility for security on the continent.
"Europe must play its part, and I am open to considering the deployment of British forces in the country alongside others if a robust peace agreement is reached, but there must be support from the US, because a US security guarantee is the only way to effectively deter Russia from launching another attack on Ukraine," Starmer told reporters.
He emphasized that European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine will require protection, particularly air cover, which only the US can provide.
European Peacekeepers in Ukraine
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed readiness to send British troops to Ukraine if necessary to ensure security guarantees. Estonia and Sweden are also not ruling out sending their troops.
At the same time, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Poland will not send its military to Ukraine, even if a peacekeeping mission is approved.
Media forecasts suggest that Europe may send "assurance" or "deterrence" forces to Ukraine consisting of several brigades. This involves an estimated number of between 25,000 and 30,000 military personnel.