Around 20 countries have expressed interest in joining a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine, UK officials revealed. While not all nations may send troops, many could provide other forms of assistance.
The initiative, spearheaded by the UK and France, was outlined by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a summit of 18 European and Canadian leaders. The plan aims to uphold any potential ceasefire in Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Russia has strongly opposed the move, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warning that such involvement would signify the “direct, official, and unveiled” participation of NATO members in the conflict.
The announcement comes as Ukraine seeks to mend relations with Washington after the US temporarily halted military aid and intelligence-sharing in an effort to pressure President Zelensky into negotiations.
During a visit to a defence firm in Merseyside, Sir Keir emphasized that waiting for a peace deal was not an option. He stressed that if a deal were reached, it was crucial to “defend the deal” and ensure Ukraine was in a strong position. The UK and France have proposed a one-month ceasefire covering air, sea, and energy infrastructure, but Russia has rejected the proposal.
British officials described the interest in the coalition as a “highly positive step,” though they acknowledged it was still in the early stages. A meeting was reportedly held to discuss security guarantees following any future peace agreement.
Meanwhile, the UK has strengthened its military support for Ukraine, announcing a £1.6 billion missile deal on Sunday, followed by another agreement with the Anglo-American security firm Anduril to supply advanced attack drones. The UK Ministry of Defence also confirmed a nearly £30 million deal, backed by the International Fund for Ukraine, to provide Kyiv with Altius 600m and 700m drone systems to enhance its defensive capabilities in the Black Sea.
On Thursday, UK Defence Secretary John Healey met with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth in Washington. Healey stated that Europe had stepped up its defense commitments in response to US demands, while Hegseth reaffirmed that UK leadership in NATO was vital for the future of European security.
In Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for an €800 billion (£670 billion) defense package, citing a “clear and present danger” to Europe. She stressed that Europe must enhance its own defense capabilities while ensuring Ukraine can protect itself and work towards lasting peace.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing EU leaders, expressed gratitude for their continued support, stating: “We are very thankful that we are not alone.”
Several nations, including Turkey, have indicated their willingness to participate in peacekeeping efforts. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin suggested that Irish troops could be involved in peacekeeping but not in a “deterrent force.” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also stated that he is open to sending peacekeeping forces.
However, Russia has dismissed calls for a temporary ceasefire, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stating that only “firm agreements on a final settlement” would be acceptable.
As geopolitical tensions escalate, Europe continues to assess its security role in the wake of potential shifts in US policy under a future Trump administration.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2017v5ngxpo