UK Leads Planning for Multinational Peacekeeping Force in Ukraine

Prime Minister Keir Starmer advances discussions on deploying a coalition of troops to Ukraine, raising questions about objectives, risks, and NATO's role.

The UK and France are currently the only nations to publicly commit to sending troops as part of a proposed multinational peacekeeping force in Ukraine, with discussions involving over 30 countries underway.
Japan has joined the 'coalition of the willing,' contributing to operational planning, though its exact role remains unclear, with possibilities including logistical support or equipment provision.
The force, expected to exceed 10,000 troops, aims to deter further Russian aggression, though questions persist about its effectiveness without a clear American security guarantee.
Critics warn that deploying troops outside NATO borders risks escalating conflict with Russia and could strain NATO's cohesion, particularly regarding Article 5 commitments.
Concerns have been raised about the UK's defense priorities, including the potential impact of this mission on rearmament strategies, defense budgets, and broader national security objectives.