The UK is hosting senior military leaders from over 20 countries on Thursday to discuss plans for a Western-led peacekeeping force for Ukraine.
The meeting, held at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, is part of a broader effort by the “coalition of the willing,” led by Britain and France, to transition the initiative into an operational phase.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to attend the discussions after visiting Barrow, where he will lay the keel of HMS Dreadnought, a next-generation nuclear-armed submarine. His visit underscores the UK’s commitment to national security and defense, as he also announces that Barrow will receive the honorary title of “Royal” for its contributions to defense manufacturing.
UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard emphasized that the coalition aims to establish a “credible force” to secure lasting peace in Ukraine and prevent further Russian expansion. He warned that if Vladimir Putin succeeds in subjugating Ukraine, he will rearm and seek to extend his influence elsewhere.
While the peacekeeping force may include “some boots on the ground,” Pollard noted that air and maritime forces would play a significant role. However, the initiative faces major obstacles, including Russia’s firm opposition to any NATO troops in Ukraine and the reluctance of the US to provide the necessary air cover for the mission.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly warned that Moscow will not tolerate the presence of NATO-affiliated forces in Ukraine, regardless of their role. The Kremlin has framed such involvement as a direct provocation that could escalate the conflict.
Sir Keir’s attendance at the meeting follows his visit to HMS Vanguard, a nuclear-armed submarine returning from an Atlantic patrol. He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to NATO and its independent nuclear deterrent, stating that its credibility ensures strategic stability.
Defense Secretary John Healey, who accompanied Starmer, echoed this stance, calling the UK’s nuclear deterrent the “ultimate guarantor” of national security and that of its NATO allies. His remarks reinforce the government’s firm stance on maintaining its nuclear capabilities amid growing global threats.
The UK’s leadership in the Ukraine peacekeeping initiative signals a strategic shift in its foreign policy, with a renewed emphasis on defense cooperation with European allies. However, without US military backing, the viability of the proposed peacekeeping force remains uncertain.
As discussions continue, the coalition will need to navigate geopolitical complexities, balancing military deterrence with diplomatic efforts to avoid further escalation with Russia. The outcome of the talks could shape the future of Western engagement in Ukraine and the broader security landscape in Europe.
