United Kingdom: The UK is set to host high-level military talks, bringing together senior leaders from over 20 nations in the “coalition of the willing” to finalise plans for a proposed peacekeeping force in Ukraine. The closed-door meeting will take place at the UK’s Permanent Joint Headquarters in Northwood, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
The coalition, led by Britain and France, is moving towards the operational phase of a Western-led peacekeeping initiative aimed at securing long-term stability in Ukraine. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard emphasised the importance of establishing a “credible force” to ensure Ukraine can “enjoy a lasting peace” while rearming and rebuilding.
Pollard stated that, “Putin won’t stop if he wins in Ukraine,” warning that Russian expansionism poses a direct threat to European security. He acknowledged that securing peace may involve “some boots on the ground” but highlighted that air and maritime forces would also play a significant role.
However, the initiative faces significant obstacles. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow will not tolerate the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine, regardless of their mission. Meanwhile, the US remains hesitant to provide the necessary air cover, a key demand from prospective contributors to the peacekeeping force.
Before attending the summit, Sir Keir will visit Barrow-in-Furness to oversee the keel-laying ceremony for HMS Dreadnought, one of Britain’s next-generation nuclear-armed submarines. He is expected to emphasise Barrow as a “blueprint” for how defence investments can benefit local communities. The prime minister will also announce that Barrow has been granted the honorary title of “Royal” in recognition of its contributions to national security.
During his visit, Sir Keir reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to its nuclear deterrent, calling it a “credible capability” that Russia acknowledges. Defence Secretary John Healey, who accompanied the prime minister, reinforced the government’s “unshakeable” stance on nuclear defence, describing it as the “ultimate guarantor of national security and the security of our NATO allies.”
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