Starmer Calls for US Support as Europe Prepares for Ukraine Peace Talks

In a recent meeting with European leaders, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that any peace settlement for Ukraine must involve US backing to prevent future Russian aggression. He indicated a readiness to deploy UK troops in a multinational force, while stressing the necessity for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities in light of the increasing threat from Russia.

Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, underscored the need for a "US backstop" during his latest discussions on peace prospects for Ukraine. Speaking after an urgent summit with European leaders in Paris, Starmer contended that a credible American security guarantee would be vital to deter any future incursions by Russia. He confirmed his intention to engage with US President Donald Trump in Washington next week to outline key aspects of a potential agreement.

The Élysée Palace meeting was catalyzed by concerns over the US administration's planned peace dialogues with Russia, which Ukrainian President Volodyrmyr Zelensky revealed caught Kyiv off-guard. Zelensky maintained that Ukraine must be part of any discussions, emphasizing the importance of including its interests in any proposed outcomes.

In light of the ongoing conflict, European leaders expressed the urgent need for the continent to take greater responsibility for its own defense. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted a new chapter in transatlantic relations demanding stronger European capabilities against perceived threats from Moscow.

Starmer previously hinted at the possibility of deploying British forces to Ukraine within a multinational contingent aimed at monitoring the frontlines. However, military analysts suggest that such deployment would necessitate an extensive logistics framework and a significant augmentation of defense budgets to maintain effective deterrence.

General Sir Adrian Bradshaw echoed these sentiments, insisting that any troops sent would require robust strategic backing to genuinely counter Russian aggression, going beyond simply performing observer roles. Evaluations regarding troop levels indicated that approximately 100,000 personnel may be necessary, creating logistical challenges for the UK, which is committed to a gradual increase in defense spending to 2.5% of GDP.

European leaders, including Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressed consensus on the necessity for raised defense expenditures, reflecting the heightened concern over Russia’s actions. Nonetheless, discussions concerning potential troop deployments remain contentious, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz labeling the topic as "premature."

As negotiations unfold, Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey expressed confidence that the UK Parliament would support any troop deployment decisions. Meanwhile, the situation in Ukraine continues to be dire, with civilian casualties reported and ongoing Russian strikes as both sides grapple with the repercussions on the battlefield.