UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his willingness to deploy British troops in Ukraine as part of a broader effort to secure peace in the war-torn country. Speaking ahead of an emergency summit in Paris, Starmer emphasized that securing a lasting peace in Ukraine was critical not just for Ukraine, but also for the security of the entire continent. The statement reflects the UK’s commitment to playing a significant role in safeguarding Ukraine’s future and deterring further aggression from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The Prime Minister wrote in The Daily Telegraph that he was “ready and willing” to send UK troops on the ground if necessary to ensure Ukraine’s security, acknowledging the gravity of the decision. “I do not say that lightly,” he said, stressing the deep responsibility involved in putting British servicemen and women in harm’s way. However, he emphasized that such a role would help protect the security of the UK and Europe at large.
Starmer’s comments signal a shift in the UK’s stance, marking a potential escalation in Britain’s involvement in the conflict. His remarks come after discussions about the need for a long-term solution to the ongoing war, as a temporary ceasefire would only serve as a pause before further Russian aggression. The UK could deploy troops alongside forces from other European nations to monitor and secure the border between Ukrainian-held and Russian-controlled territories.
However, the UK’s ability to lead such a peacekeeping mission is in question. Former UK Army chief Lord Dannatt warned that the British military is currently too overstretched to lead a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. He noted that up to 40,000 UK troops would be needed on rotation for a peacekeeping mission, a number that the UK military does not have at its disposal. A force of approximately 100,000 troops would be required for the mission, with the UK expected to contribute a substantial portion of that force.
Starmer’s announcement also comes in the wake of concerns over US-Russia peace talks that could potentially exclude European leaders. The US is reportedly moving forward with discussions that will sideline European nations, raising alarm among European leaders who argue that Ukraine must be part of any peace negotiations.
As European leaders gather in Paris for a summit led by French President Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir is advocating for the inclusion of Ukraine in all peace talks, ensuring that its sovereignty is upheld and its path to NATO membership remains irreversible. With the US set to meet with Russian officials soon, the UK’s role in securing a lasting peace in Ukraine remains a key issue on the global stage.
