UK and Sweden Consider Sending Peacekeeping Troops to Ukraine

The United Kingdom has expressed its willingness to send soldiers to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping force, according to statements made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In an op-ed for a major British publication, Starmer emphasized that the UK could play a leading role in establishing security guarantees for Ukraine, which might involve stationing troops in the country if necessary following the conclusion of hostilities. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that any cessation of conflict does not merely serve as a pause before renewed aggression from Russia.

Starmer acknowledged the serious implications of deploying British forces, recognizing the potential risks to their safety. He stated that contributing to Ukraine's security is vital for the safety of Europe and the UK itself.

Additionally, Starmer noted that the UK has a unique opportunity to facilitate negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, positioning itself as a bridge between European nations and the United States. He called for continued close cooperation between Europe and America, asserting that the UK could enhance this collaboration.

Sweden has also indicated that it may consider sending troops to Ukraine to support any future peace agreement. Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard stated that a fair and sustainable peace settlement must first be negotiated, one that adheres to international law. If such an agreement is reached and implemented, she asserted that the Swedish government would not rule out any options regarding troop deployment.

In the context of these discussions, the US government has urged Germany and other EU nations to clarify what security guarantees they can provide for Ukraine. High-ranking officials in the US, including President Donald Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance, have suggested that European nations hold primary responsibility for ensuring peace in Ukraine post-conflict. However, the feasibility of gathering adequately equipped soldiers for this mission remains uncertain.

A European summit addressing the ongoing Ukraine conflict is set to begin in Paris, where Starmer will be joined by notable leaders including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and heads of state from Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark. The aim of this gathering is to align positions among European nations in anticipation of potential peace negotiations regarding Ukraine.

Recent concerns have emerged regarding the possibility of the US engaging in peace negotiations with Russia without the involvement of Ukraine and European countries. On the same day as the European summit, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, asserting that both Ukraine and Europe will be included in any substantial negotiations that may take place.

For ongoing updates regarding the situation in Ukraine, readers can refer to live blogs and news feeds.