The United Kingdom has organized a meeting with senior European military leaders to discuss the formation of a proposed peacekeeping force for Ukraine. The meeting, set for Thursday, is expected to include representatives from over 20 countries, according to British media outlet BBC.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join the meeting after visiting the construction site of the next-generation UK nuclear submarine, HMS Dreadnought.
The plan for a Western-led peacekeeping force for Ukraine is now in the operational phase. Senior military officials from the UK, France, and other willing coalition members will meet at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood to discuss the operational structure of the force.
Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard emphasized that the coalition aims to create a “credible force” that will help Ukraine achieve “lasting peace” and support its reconstruction and rearmament. He warned that if Russian President Vladimir Putin succeeds in Ukraine, he will not stop there. Pollard stated, “If he subjugates all of Ukraine—something he has long planned—he will only rearm and seek to expand his influence and dominance, which is not in the interest of our country or our European allies.”
Pollard acknowledged that ensuring peace in Ukraine might require some troop deployments, but he emphasized the importance of strong air and naval presence in the force.
However, significant challenges remain. President Putin has warned that Moscow will not tolerate any NATO troop presence in Ukraine, regardless of their role. Additionally, the United States is reportedly reluctant to provide necessary air support, while potential coalition members have requested U.S. air defense assistance.
Prime Minister Starmer stated that the Kremlin respects the UK’s nuclear deterrent because of its “independent defense capabilities and NATO commitments.” He added, “It is clear that they recognize it as a credible capability, and that is undeniably the case.”
Defense Secretary John Healey reaffirmed the UK government’s “unwavering” commitment to its nuclear deterrence, calling it the “ultimate guarantee of our national security and the security of our NATO allies.”
