Foreign peacekeepers in Ukraine? Europe divided on the issue

The UK and other European countries are divided on the possibility of deploying a large-scale peacekeeping force in Ukraine, The Times reports.

"The UK, France and Scandinavian countries support the idea of a European initiative to send tens of thousands of troops in the event of a ceasefire. However, Germany and others are known to be opposed," the newspaper writes.

The Baltic states and Poland are understood to be concerned that the proposed mission could divert much-needed resources from NATO countries bordering Russia, leaving them defenseless.

It is noted that there is a growing consensus that such a post-conflict deployment would require "the support" Donald Trump and security guarantees.

A senior British government source has said that Europe could form its own ground forces if necessary, but ministers have asked the US to provide "air cover". This could take the form of Patriot anti-aircraft missile batteries that can shoot down ballistic missiles, or aircraft with reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities that Europe lacks.

The British army could theoretically send a division of 10,000 to 25,000 troops, a military source said, although that may be overkill given that troops are already deployed in Estonia.

"Some believe it would be more feasible to create a UN peacekeeping force made up of troops from countries such as India, Bangladesh and China," the article said.

Keir Starmer is expected to discuss the issue with EU leaders and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at a meeting in Brussels.

John Healey, the defence secretary, has insisted that the UK The UK needs to show strong leadership on this issue. But some officials believe they have yet to convince Rachel Reeves, Britain's chancellor, of the importance of Ukraine, and fear she sees it as a "money pit".

A major stumbling block is whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will agree to such a force during US-led peace talks.

Some diplomatic and military sources believe a UN peacekeeping operation is a more sensible alternative, one more likely to secure Putin's approval. It could involve around 100,000 peacekeepers stationed in both Ukraine and Russia, and would not require direct US involvement.