Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his readiness to deploy British troops to Ukraine, placing them “in harm’s way” as a deterrent against Russian aggression.
This declaration marks a significant escalation in the UK’s stance on the ongoing conflict, as global leaders prepare for urgent discussions in Paris on how to end the war.
Starmer confirmed Britain’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense and security, pledging a substantial £3 billion annually until 2030.
He emphasized that support for Ukraine goes beyond financial aid and weapons, stating that securing Ukraine’s sovereignty may require direct British military presence. “It also means being ready and willing to contribute to security guarantees to Ukraine by putting our own troops on the ground if necessary,” he stated.
Acknowledging the gravity of such a move, Starmer expressed the weight of responsibility that comes with deploying British service personnel into an active conflict zone. “I do not say that lightly. I feel very deeply the responsibility that comes with potentially putting British servicemen and women in harm’s way,” he said.
The Prime Minister underscored that the war’s resolution must not allow for future Russian aggression. “The end of this war, when it comes, cannot merely become a temporary pause before Putin attacks again,” he declared.
High-Stakes Talks in Paris
Starmer’s comments come ahead of an emergency summit in Paris, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron. Leaders from Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark, and NATO and European Union officials, will attend the high-level meeting.
The discussion will focus on fortifying Ukraine’s defense and responding to diplomatic maneuvers led by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is working to broker a settlement with Russia.
The UK’s position appears to be aimed at strengthening European resolve and reinforcing the need for a robust security framework that deters further Russian military action. Starmer stated, “We have got to show we are truly serious about our own defense and bearing our own burden.”
Meanwhile, representatives from the U.S. and Russia are expected to meet in Saudi Arabia for discussions following a direct phone call between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, Ukrainian officials are notably absent from these early negotiations, raising concerns about the legitimacy of any proposed settlement. Some European leaders may also be excluded from the process, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Starmer firmly insisted that any peace agreement must involve Ukraine directly.
“We must be clear that peace cannot come at any cost. Ukraine must be at the table in these negotiations because anything less would accept Putin’s position that Ukraine is not a real nation.”
Keir Starmer
Zelensky Warns of Russian Threat to Europe
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a dire warning about the potential expansion of Russian aggression beyond Ukraine’s borders.
In a recent interview, he stated that the likelihood of Russia attempting to occupy parts of Europe is “100 percent.” Intelligence reports suggest that approximately 150,000 Russian troops are amassing in neighboring Belarus, increasing fears of a broader conflict.
Zelensky also emphasized the critical importance of U.S. support for Ukraine’s survival. “Without President Trump and the US administration’s support in Ukraine, we have a low chance to survive,” he admitted. After three years of war and the loss of 20 percent of Ukraine’s territory to Russian forces, Kyiv remains highly dependent on Western military aid.
“Even if I look at the army of Russia, if they will see it that they, Russia, have 220 or 250 brigades, and Europe has 50. That is the answer. The risk that Russia will occupy Europe is 100 percent.”
President Volodymyr Zelensky
As the crisis deepens, Starmer’s willingness to put British troops on the ground signals a decisive shift in UK foreign policy, reinforcing Britain’s stance against Russian aggression.
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