In a provocative diplomatic move, Sir Keir Starmer has revived the controversial term “coalition of the willing” to describe a potential international peacekeeping mission for Ukraine. The phrase, famously used during the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, now frames a proposed diplomatic initiative to deploy troops from European and NATO countries to support Ukraine’s stability.
Discussed during a gathering of European leaders in London, the initiative aims to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching future offensives by maintaining a ceasefire and providing strategic peacekeeping support. By invoking this historical term, Starmer not only outlines a potential military strategy but also subtly reminds the United States of the long-standing military cooperation between the UK and Washington.
Potential participants include the UK and France, expected to take leadership roles as Europe’s primary military powers and the continent’s only nuclear states. Baltic states Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia, along with Finland, are strong candidates, given their NATO membership and proximity to Russia. International support extends beyond Europe, with Canada and Australia expressing willingness to consider troop deployment.
However, the initiative faces significant challenges. Several key European nations have expressed reservations. Poland, despite planning substantial defense spending, has ruled out sending troops due to border security concerns. Spain appears hesitant, prioritizing ceasefire negotiations over troop deployment. Germany’s position remains uncertain amid political transitions.
The proposal seeks to bypass NATO’s internal vetoes and complex decision making processes. As military analyst Michael Clarke explains, this independent coalition would allow member countries to act more decisively without being hindered by internal opposition.
A critical unknown remains the United States’ response. As NATO’s largest military power, contributing nearly 60% of its fighter aircraft fleet, U.S. support could be pivotal. The initiative appears partially designed to demonstrate European commitment to defense, potentially influencing Washington’s stance ahead of potential future political shifts.
Russia has already rejected the idea of a NATO or European peacekeeping force in Ukraine, adding significant diplomatic complexity to the proposal.
The UK, France, and Ukraine are reportedly working together on a peace deal that could eventually be presented to the United States for backing. If successful, this “coalition of the willing” would represent a significant moment in European defense policy.