By Matt Underwood UK and France are reportedly discussing the possibility of sending a joint peacekeeping force to Ukraine following any potential resolution to the ongoing conflict. This idea, seemingly championed by French President Emmanuel Macron, involves deploying British and French soldiers to maintain stability and security within Ukraine’s borders after a peace agreement is reached.
The discussions between Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, which reportedly took place at Chequers, remain shrouded in secrecy. While neither Downing Street nor the Elysee Palace has denied the talks, details are scant. However, sources within the UK government suggest that Sir Keir Starmer hasn’t fully committed to the proposal. Concerns have been raised about the challenges involved in such an undertaking, including the potential threats faced by peacekeeping troops and the risk of escalating tensions.
This proposal emerges as European leaders grapple with the need for continued support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, especially with the incoming US administration under President Trump reportedly pushing for a swift peace deal with Russia. Trump’s focus on ending the conflict quickly, although scaled back from his initial “day one” pledge, creates a sense of urgency in finding solutions that would preserve Ukrainian interests.
One key consideration driving the peacekeeping discussion is the possibility of Russia retaining territory captured during the war as part of any peace deal. This scenario has prompted European leaders to explore options for securing the remaining Ukrainian territory from future Russian aggression. The thinking is that a robust peacekeeping presence could offer a guarantee of protection to the regions that remain under Ukrainian control.
The practical implications of such a peacekeeping mission are numerous and complex. Concerns within the UK government highlight the significant logistical and strategic challenges involved in deploying and sustaining a peacekeeping force in a potentially volatile environment. There are questions about the size of the force, the resources required, and the risks involved. Even the simple act of deploying troops would likely be met with fierce rhetoric from Moscow.
The prospect of a significant Western military presence on Ukrainian soil is fraught with risks. It could potentially be interpreted as an act of aggression by Russia, leading to a further escalation of the conflict. The need to carefully consider the potential consequences of such a deployment is paramount. Furthermore, there’s a debate about the length of the peacekeeping mission and what the exit strategy would entail. Would the peacekeepers withdraw quickly or remain for an extended period, potentially creating a long-term dependency?
Underlying the discussions is a recognition of the precarious situation in Ukraine. The war’s impact on the regional and global order is undeniable. A poorly managed or premature peace agreement risks leaving Ukraine vulnerable and destabilizing the region further. Therefore, a significant effort is being devoted to exploring options that ensure a sustainable and lasting peace. The involvement of UK and French peacekeeping troops is seen by some as a way to bridge the gap between a negotiated settlement and lasting stability.
However, some voices question the effectiveness and long-term sustainability of a peacekeeping operation. Critics argue that Russia might simply use a ceasefire as an opportunity to regroup and re-launch another offensive later, rendering the peacekeeping effort futile. The concern is that any temporary solution that doesn’t address the root causes of the conflict might only delay, not resolve, the core issues. A longer-term solution that focuses on addressing the underlying geopolitical tensions and guaranteeing Ukraine’s long-term security is widely considered essential.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to deploy peacekeeping troops to Ukraine is a complex one, involving a careful assessment of the risks, benefits, and practical feasibility. A multifaceted approach that combines military guarantees with diplomatic initiatives, economic support, and long-term security arrangements is likely necessary for a sustainable resolution to this protracted conflict. While the possibility of a joint UK-France peacekeeping mission is under discussion, the path toward peace in Ukraine remains long and uncertain.