Starmer cautioned of ‘significant expense’ of deploying peacekeeping troops to Ukraine
Lord Richard Dannatt expressed concern that Britain lacks the necessary forces and equipment to deploy a large force on the ground for an extended period.
A former army chief cautioned that the UK is deficient in forces and equipment, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer confirmed his willingness to deploy a peacekeeping force in Ukraine if a deal is reached to end the conflict with Russia.
Lord Richard Dannatt praised Starmer’s decision but highlighted the significant costs involved, emphasizing that Britain is not equipped to sustain a large ground force over an extended duration.
Starmer is set to participate in emergency discussions in Paris with European leaders to devise a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and concerns about potential reductions in U.S. defense commitments in Europe.
Describing the crisis as a pivotal moment for Europe, Starmer emphasized the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s security and pledged £3 billion annually until 2030 for this purpose.
However, he acknowledged that supporting Ukraine’s defense may involve putting British troops on the ground if necessary, although he acknowledged the weight of such a decision.
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Starmer expressed the weight of potentially putting British troops in harm’s way for the sake of aiding Ukraine’s security and ensuring Europe’s safety.
Emphasizing the need to prevent Putin from launching another attack, Starmer hinted at the deployment of British forces for peacekeeping purposes after a ceasefire, drawing both support and caution from Lord Dannatt.
Lord Dannatt highlighted the challenges of deploying a large force in Ukraine due to insufficient personnel, equipment, and funding, urging adequate preparation before committing troops.
Gen. Lord Dannatt, chairman of trustees of the Normandy Memorial Trust, gives a speech at the official opening of the Winston Churchill Education and Learning Centre, on the site of the British Normandy Memorial on the 80th anniversary of D-Day, in Ver-Sur-Mer, France, on June 6, 2024. Gareth Fuller – Pool/Getty Images
Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged the depletion of the armed forces over the past decade, refraining from speculating on the required troop numbers for a peacekeeping mission.
Starmer’s article underscored the need for European nations to bolster their defense capabilities, while recognizing the U.S.’s vital role in deterring Putin from future attacks.
International talks between U.S. and Russian officials are forthcoming, as pressure mounts for Europe to enhance defense spending amid the ongoing crisis.
