Keir Starmer leads coalition to bolster Ukraine amid continued Russian aggression

In France, Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, met with approximately 30 world leaders at the Elysee Palace to discuss support for Ukraine in the wake of ongoing conflict with Russia. This meeting took place during the third summit of the coalition of the willing, which was initially announced by Starmer in early March. The coalition aims to create a peacekeeping force that would help enforce any ceasefire agreement that may be reached between Moscow and Kyiv. Prior to this summit, significant discussions were held, involving over 200 military planners globally to outline the details of the potential peacekeeping mission. French President Emmanuel Macron played a central role in the discussions, advocating for the deployment of European troops to Ukraine to monitor the peace deal with Moscow. Macron stated that these forces would be positioned in strategic locations but would respond decisively if Russia launched an attack on Ukraine. Additionally, the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasized the need for a united European front against Russian aggression and stressed the importance of maintaining and intensifying sanctions against Russia until the occupation ceases. Macron's vision for the coalition proposes a reduction of the original plan for a large peacekeeping force. Instead, there is a focus on creating a reassurance force, which would provide a presence in key areas without engaging frontline hostilities. The rationale is to avoid direct conflict while still providing a deterrent against further Russian incursions. Discussions also included the financial and military support that European nations could provide to reinforce Ukraine's defenses. Despite the coordinated efforts and expressions of support in various summits, Zelensky noted the lack of concrete plans regarding the coalition's operational responsibilities and capabilities. He criticized the insufficient answers given regarding what troops would do, their command structure, and accountability. As discussions continue, the coalition leaders aim to transform declarations of support into tangible actions to strengthen Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.