What's happened
On March 18, 2025, military leaders from over 30 countries will meet in the UK to discuss a potential peacekeeping coalition for Ukraine. This follows ongoing tensions with Russia and a proposed ceasefire. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are leading the initiative, emphasizing the need for security guarantees for Ukraine.
What's behind the headline?
Key Points:
- Coalition Formation: The upcoming meeting in the UK aims to solidify a coalition of over 30 nations to provide military support to Ukraine, emphasizing a significant international commitment.
- Troop Deployment: Macron has indicated that troop deployments will not require Russia's permission, asserting Ukraine's sovereignty in requesting allied forces.
- Operational Planning: Discussions are moving into an operational phase, with various countries expected to contribute differently, from logistics to troop deployments.
- US Involvement: The necessity of US backing remains a critical factor for the coalition's success, as highlighted by Starmer's spokesperson.
- Russia's Stance: Moscow has rejected the idea of NATO troops in Ukraine, complicating the peacekeeping efforts and raising questions about the feasibility of a ceasefire.
Implications:
- The coalition's formation could significantly alter the dynamics of the conflict, potentially deterring further Russian aggression.
- However, the lack of a clear ceasefire agreement raises concerns about the timing and effectiveness of troop deployments.
What the papers say
The Guardian's Warren Murray reports that military chiefs from allied nations will convene in the UK to discuss troop contributions, with Starmer emphasizing the coalition's significance. Meanwhile, The Mirror highlights Starmer's insistence on US security guarantees for the coalition's success, reflecting the complex geopolitical landscape. Emmanuel Macron, as reported by The Independent, has stated that troop deployments will not require Russian approval, reinforcing Ukraine's sovereignty. This sentiment is echoed in multiple sources, indicating a unified stance among Western leaders despite Russia's opposition.
How we got here
The conflict in Ukraine has escalated since Russia's invasion, prompting international discussions on military support. Recent negotiations have included proposals for a ceasefire, with Ukraine's President Zelensky accepting terms, while Russia demands territorial concessions. The UK and France are now spearheading efforts for a coalition to support Ukraine's defense.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the coalition?
- How is Russia responding to these plans?
- What role will the US play in the coalition?
More on these topics
-
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
-
Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
-
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
-
Emmanuel Jean-Michel Frédéric Macron is a French politician who has been President of France and ex officio Co-Prince of Andorra since 14 May 2017.
-
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.