Europe’s ‘coalition of the willing’ takes shape as UK backs off
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Despite Europe’s efforts, it remains unclear whether President Trump will support Europe's initiative.
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Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, front center, hosts the European leaders' summit to discuss Ukraine, at Lancaster House, London, Sunday, March 2, 2025. (AP)
Published in The New York Times, a new article explored Europe's efforts to form a "coalition of the willing" to help bring an end to the war in Ukraine. Led by Britain and France, the initiative reportedly aimed to secure a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia, despite significant political and economic challenges.
The piece highlighted the varying levels of commitment from European nations and the broader geopolitical dynamics, including the influence of US President Trump on the peace process.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged that “not every nation will feel able to contribute” but expressed optimism that several countries would join to demonstrate Europe’s commitment to “do the heavy lifting” for peace. However, Russia has rejected such a coalition as part of any settlement.
Starmer emphasized that the coalition would be one part of a broader strategy that includes continued military aid for Ukraine, a seat at the table for Kiev in peace talks, and support for Ukraine’s defense post-settlement. Northern European countries like Denmark and the Netherlands are likely candidates, but political and economic hurdles, such as parliamentary approval, may complicate participation, as per the piece.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the plan would begin with a one-month truce, with peacekeeping troops deployed only after negotiations. “There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks,” Macron clarified, stressing that Europe seeks peace “without guarantees".
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed skepticism about peacekeeping forces, saying, “deploying Italian troops has never been on the table.” Hungarian and Slovakian leaders, Viktor Orban and Robert Fico, called for an immediate ceasefire, though neither attended the summit. Orban may block efforts to keep Russian assets frozen, warning of “unanimity” challenges.
Despite Europe’s efforts, it remains unclear whether President Trump will support the initiative. Starmer revealed that he spoke with Trump on Saturday evening, reiterating that Europe’s plans would lead to a “durable peace.”
UK rejects Macron’s Ukraine ceasefire proposal: FT
Meanwhile, the UK has distanced itself from French President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal for a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, as reported by the Financial Times, amid growing concerns in Kiev about halting hostilities without firm security guarantees in place.
The UK, which hosted the summit, emphasized that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer sought to advance the peace plan "with momentum" but clarified that a one-month truce was not part of the UK's official plan.
A British official said, as quoted by FT, “There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed.”
Moreover, UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard warned against pausing the fighting, saying it could give Russia time to regroup. “The very real worry that the Ukrainians have is that any short pause in the war simply allows the Russians time to re-arm, regroup and reinvade.”
In conclusion, the ongoing debate over a potential ceasefire in Ukraine underscores the deep political and strategic divides among European leaders and their approach to resolving the war.
Europe will continue to arm Ukraine after peace is established: Starmer
In a related context, Starmer said Europe will continue to arm Ukraine after peace is established, but Europe cannot give security guarantees to Ukraine without the US.
He added that the UK is in favor of sending its troops to Ukraine and is also ready to send planes to close the skies.
In parallel, he asserted during his speech in the UK parliament that the United Kingdom must strengthen its partnership with the United States in security, technology, trade and investment.
"We must strengthen our relations with America for security, for our technology, for our trade and investment," Starmer, adding, "The US is vital, it is securing the peace we all want to see in Ukraine."
Read more: US needs Ukrainian leader eyeing lasting peace with Russia, Waltz says
