UK troops in Ukraine, A former national security adviser has cautioned that UK troops deployed to safeguard peace in Ukraine may need to remain for “many years.”
Lord Sedwill stated that ensuring Ukraine’s security would require “strategic patience,” as the UK and France lead efforts to support a ceasefire in the ongoing war with Russia. The plan includes forming a “coalition of the willing,” potentially involving around 20 nations. While not all may send troops, some could offer alternative forms of assistance.
UK and France Push for International Support
The initiative was outlined at a summit hosted by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Although no official details were released about which nations may contribute, reports indicate that European and Commonwealth countries are involved.
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has agreed to “consider contributing,” while Norway’s foreign minister, Espen Barth Eide, has expressed willingness to participate, though specifics remain unclear. He emphasized that defining what needs to be defended is crucial before committing troops.
Long-Term Commitment Essential for Stability
Lord Sedwill warned that if Russia perceives the UK’s military presence as temporary, any peace effort could fail. He stressed that success depends on sustaining the mission for as long as necessary, potentially spanning several years.
Concerns about the U.S. approach to the conflict have also emerged. President Donald Trump recently halted military aid to Ukraine, including intelligence-sharing and satellite access, in what appears to be an attempt to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky into negotiations.
Russia Rejects Peacekeeping Troops
Russian officials strongly oppose the idea of foreign troops in Ukraine. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has argued that NATO involvement would be a “direct and unveiled act of war against Russia.” Russian MP Yevgeny Popov went further, warning that British troops in Ukraine would be “direct targets” for Russian missiles, leading to British casualties.
Europe’s Growing Military Commitments
Amid these tensions, European leaders have pledged increased military spending. At a recent Brussels summit, EU leaders backed a €150 billion joint borrowing plan to strengthen defence capabilities. Sir Keir described this as a “historic” decision and a sign that Europe is taking greater responsibility for security.
Next week, a meeting in Paris is expected to advance military and peacekeeping plans. The UK, alongside France and Ukraine, aims to present a proposal to the U.S., hoping to secure continued American support.
The Future of NATO and European Defence
Lord Sedwill believes this moment presents an opportunity to “reset” NATO, with Europe demonstrating its willingness to take on a greater share of defence responsibilities. He emphasized that NATO remains strong, especially following the recent addition of Finland and Sweden.
Former NATO Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller praised Europe’s growing role in Ukraine’s defence, stating that European nations are “taking responsibility for their security.”
Meanwhile, former UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that Europe should prepare for a scenario in which the U.S. withdraws from NATO. He argued that Europe has the financial resources and determination to secure its defence independently.
UK Seeks Strong U.S. Partnership
Despite Trump’s reluctance to commit to long-term support, UK leaders insist that cooperation with the U.S. remains crucial. Sir Keir has stated that maintaining peace requires working closely with both the U.S. and European allies, reinforcing the stability that has been preserved for decades.
Trump, however, has hinted that U.S. business interests in Ukraine, particularly in minerals, could serve as a security guarantee instead of direct military support.
With uncertainty over U.S. involvement, the UK’s push for European-led defence efforts may prove essential in shaping Ukraine’s future.