In a dramatic call for enhanced transatlantic security cooperation, Sir Keir Starmer urged the United States to provide a “backstop” for any future deployment of British forces in Ukraine as part of a broader European peacekeeping initiative, according to BBC. The call came after emergency talks in Paris with European leaders concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Starmer stressing the necessity of a united front to deter further Russian aggression.
Sir Keir stated, “Europe must play its role, and I’m prepared to consider committing British forces on the ground alongside others if there is a lasting peace agreement. “But there must be a US backstop because a US security guarantee is the only way to effectively deter Russia from attacking Ukraine again.” His remarks underline the belief that any credible peace plan in the region must hinge on a firm US security commitment, as the specter of renewed Russian hostilities continues to loom large over the continent, according to the Express.
Describing Ukraine as an “existential question” for Europe, Starmer argued that the continent must assume greater responsibility for its security. His proposal has met with mixed reactions among European allies. While France is expected to support the idea of a European peacekeeping force, other nations, notably Germany and Poland, appear reluctant to commit troops or endorse the broader initiative. Poland, for example, has ruled out involvement due to its current focus on protecting NATO’s eastern flank.
At a high-level meeting convened by French President Emmanuel Macron, leaders from Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark, and others gathered to discuss the feasibility of a peacekeeping mission. A diplomatic source commented, “The whole discussion is moot without both Germany and Poland’s participation,” highlighting the deep divisions within the European camp.
Meanwhile, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares commented, “Nobody is currently considering sending troops to Ukraine. Firstly, because peace is still very far away and for one reason only: Vladimir Putin.” This sentiment was echoed by leaders from Hungary, Slovakia, and other countries with close Kremlin ties, who remain cautious about any direct military involvement.
Sir Keir further pressed for a significant boost in collective defense capabilities. He declared, “I think that we need to do more. We need to step up in terms of our collective response in Europe, and by that I mean capability. By that, I mean playing our full part when it comes to the defense of the sovereignty of Ukraine if there’s a peace agreement, and, of course, when it comes to funding and training. “So, on all those fronts, I want the UK and all European allies to step up, and for the UK to play a leading part in that.”
Critics, including former army chief Lord Richard Dannatt, have warned that deploying boots on the ground in Ukraine would come at “a considerable cost” due to current limitations in force numbers and equipment. As diplomatic efforts continue, Starmer’s call for a US backstop remains a pivotal element in shaping the future of European security and any lasting peace agreement in Ukraine.
