The UK and France are leading a coalition of willing nations to establish a lasting ceasefire in Ukraine, potentially involving troops and air support. Australia is considering joining this coalition, as Prime Minister Albanese indicated a willingness to assist. The coalition, which is currently in the discussion phase and includes around 20 European and Commonwealth countries, requires strong U.S. support for success. However, Russia has already stated its opposition to Western troops on Ukrainian soil.
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Lord Mandelson proposed a peace initiative requiring Ukrainian support for a U.S.-led ceasefire, with Ukraine initiating the truce and defying Russia to reciprocate. However, the UK government distanced itself from this proposal, stating it’s not official policy and that discussions with allies are ongoing. The UK’s focus remains on forging a coalition to deploy peacekeeping troops, contingent on sustained U.S. air support. A reported Franco-British proposal for a one-month truce lacked confirmation from the UK government.
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Britain, France, and Ukraine are collaborating on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States, aiming to restore peace talks and prevent further Russian aggression. This initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Starmer, involves a three-pronged approach: arming Ukraine, securing a European-led security guarantee, and establishing a U.S. backstop to ensure lasting peace. A significant London summit brought together European leaders to solidify support for Ukraine and increase defense spending in response to recent U.S. policy shifts. The success of this plan hinges on the cooperation of all parties involved to establish a sustainable peace agreement.
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President-elect Trump proposed that European troops oversee a potential Ukraine ceasefire, a suggestion discussed among European officials but rejected by Poland. This proposal, coupled with his desire for a reduced U.S. role and opposition to Ukraine’s NATO membership, reflects a strategy to leverage European involvement and pressure from China to end the conflict. Trump intends to maintain Ukrainian military support while simultaneously urging Moscow to negotiate. He also criticized the Biden administration’s approach to the conflict, particularly long-range strikes within Russia.
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John Q. Hosedrinker