British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday that the United Kingdom will provide troops on the ground in Ukraine if necessary to end the war and ensure the security of Britain and Europe.
The UK plays a leading role in supporting Kyiv in the war against Russia, which “also means we must be ready and willing to contribute to Ukraine’s security guarantees by deploying our own troops if necessary,” Starmer wrote in his article for the Daily Telegraph.
“I do not say this lightly,” Starmer added, emphasizing that he “feels deeply the responsibility that comes with potentially putting British soldiers in harm’s way.”
“Any role in helping guarantee Ukraine’s security helps guarantee the security of our continent and this country,” he wrote.
Starmer confirmed he will join a high-level meeting in Paris on Monday to address growing concerns over how the U.S. intends to end the war in Ukraine.
He also announced that he will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in the coming days, adding that the UK has a unique role in ensuring close cooperation between Europe and the United States.
“U.S. support will remain critical, and American security guarantees are essential for lasting peace, as only the U.S. can deter Putin from attacking again,” Starmer wrote, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The heads of government from Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark are expected to meet ahead of the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine.
European countries fear that if Washington forces Ukraine into an unfavorable deal, it will leave Putin room for victory and the continent at the mercy of an emboldened Moscow.
“We are facing a once-in-a-generation moment for the collective security of our continent. This is not just about Ukraine’s future, but an existential issue for Europe as a whole,” Starmer warned in his article published Sunday.
On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly thanked Starmer for Britain’s continued support and leadership in international affairs. Zelensky briefed Starmer on his recent conversation with Trump.
He emphasized the importance of joint efforts between Kyiv, Washington, and European allies. The two leaders also discussed strengthening joint security, new economic cooperation, and political partnership.
“The security of every nation depends on strengthening our collective security. It is crucial that each new week brings tangible results to ensure lasting and reliable peace,” Zelensky said.
The UK is considering establishing military bases in Ukraine under a new agreement marking a 100-year partnership between the two countries.
Details were shared in a document published by the British government on January 16 after Starmer’s visit to Kyiv.
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The agreement states that both sides will explore options for building and maintaining defense infrastructure in Ukraine, including military bases, supply depots, and equipment storage facilities.
These facilities could be used to bolster Ukraine’s defense in the face of future serious threats.
Under the agreement, London has committed to providing Ukraine with at least £3 billion ($3.7 billion) in military aid annually until 2030-31, with a promise of additional support as needed.
There was also a confidential part of the agreement hinted at by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which includes strategies for enhancing Ukraine’s future stability and development, according to Kyiv Independent.
During his visit, Starmer announced new military support, including artillery and the mobile “Greyhawk” air defense system. He promised that “the UK will provide even more assistance in 2025 than it has in the past.”
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Source: Kurir, Foto: AP