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The Wall Street Journal reported on 23 February that the UK and France are developing an ambitious plan that could see up to 30,000 European peacekeepers deployed in Ukraine if a peace deal between Moscow and Kyiv is reached.
According to unnamed EU officials, the key to the plan is the involvement of the United States, which would be limited to a “limited” participation. British officials believe that American support could serve as a “shield” to protect European troops in Ukraine in the event of a Russian breach of the peace treaty.
It is noted that American involvement will not involve the deployment of troops on Ukrainian territory, which US President Donald Trump has effectively ruled out. However, the plan envisages the use of “US military capabilities”, which may include the management of air defence systems from neighbouring countries to protect Ukraine.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer intends to present a draft of the plan to Trump during a meeting in Washington on 27 February. At the same time, French President Emmanuel Macron, who will visit the White House on 24 February, is also showing interest in the plan and is gathering ideas from other allies.
This initiative reflects Europe’s growing responsibility for its own security and attempts to ensure sustainable peace in Ukraine, which is critical to regional stability.
