UK and France Lead Troop Deployment to Ukraine as Pressure Mounts on Putin
The UK and France are spearheading a volunteer coalition aimed at deploying troops to Ukraine, signaling a major shift in Western military support. While officially labeled a peacekeeping force, its real mission is clear: to protect Ukraine and weaken Vladimir Putin’s war machine.
A high-level military meeting is set to take place in London next Thursday, bringing together officials from coalition nations to discuss the logistics of the deployment. This marks the beginning of what could be the first exclusively European-led military mission since World War II, with little to no involvement from the United States.
Coalition Plans and Rising Tensions
The coalition’s primary goal, at least on paper, is to safeguard a future ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. However, in practice, the troops will likely act as a deterrent against further Russian advances—similar to how 24,000 U.S. soldiers have remained stationed in South Korea since the 1953 armistice with North Korea.
Despite the coalition's formation, many details remain uncertain. It is unclear which nations will contribute troops, how the chain of command will be structured, and whether forces will be stationed deep inside Ukraine or closer to the front lines in Donbas.
So far, the UK and France are expected to take leadership roles due to their combat experience and military strength, while Germany’s involvement remains uncertain. Italy, on the other hand, has expressed reservations. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's office stated that Italy would not participate without a UN resolution, though her stance leaves room for future changes.
Financial Disputes Among Allies
One of the major obstacles in the coalition’s formation is the debate over frozen Russian assets. The 300 billion euros held in Western financial institutions remain a point of contention. The UK is pushing for the funds to be used for weapons purchases for Ukraine, while France and Germany oppose touching the principal. So far, only interest generated from these funds has been used sparingly.
At yesterday’s virtual summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged allies to ramp up pressure on Russia. He emphasized that while Putin may eventually come to the negotiating table, the coalition cannot afford to wait.
“Now is the time to exert maximum pressure on Russia,” Starmer stated. “Sanctions must continue, and we must weaken Putin’s war machinery to bring him to the table.”
Starmer also attempted to bring Japan into the coalition, but Tokyo declined to join for now.
A Risky but Crucial Mission
The volunteer coalition echoes the 2003 U.S.-led "Coalition of the Willing" that supported the Iraq War. However, unlike past Western interventions, this mission may lack direct U.S. support. Unless there is a policy shift under a future Donald Trump administration, Washington is unlikely to provide air cover, intelligence, or logistical assistance.
This raises concerns about how the coalition will operate independently, especially if Russia views the presence of Western troops as a provocation. Australia and New Zealand are rumored to be considering participation, but their involvement remains unconfirmed.
With the London meeting fast approaching, NATO allies are entering uncharted territory. The deployment of troops could strengthen Ukraine’s defense, but it also risks escalating tensions with Moscow. Whether this move will force Putin to negotiate or push the conflict further into dangerous territory remains to be seen.
What’s Next?
- The high-ranking military meeting in London next Thursday will determine the coalition’s structure and strategy.
- Germany’s stance remains uncertain—will Berlin join UK and France in leading the mission?
- U.S. involvement is unlikely, meaning Europe may have to navigate this operation alone.
- The ongoing debate over Russian frozen assets could impact Ukraine’s ability to continue its defense.
With Ukraine’s fate hanging in the balance, the next few weeks could shape the future of the war—and Europe’s role in it.
Comment
To post a comment, you have to login first
LoginNo Comments Yet...