European security plan seeks US ‘backstop’ as Russia objects

Western officials confirm that the proposed force, under 30,000 strong, would focus on air and maritime security, ensuring safe airspace and Black Sea trade routes. Ground deployments would be minimal, avoiding frontline regions.

The plan comes amid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s call for a far larger deterrence force (100,000-150,000 troops) involving the US, which Washington has rejected. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth ruled out American troop deployments, leaving Europe to take the lead.

A key condition for the European force is a US military ‘backstop’, expected to centre on American air power based in Poland and Romania. Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron will meet Donald Trump in Washington next week to push for this commitment.

However, Russia opposes any NATO-aligned presence in Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warning it would be “unacceptable”. Western leaders insist the plan avoids direct NATO-Russia conflict.

While still in early conceptual stages, the proposal highlights Europe’s growing military role as US support remains uncertain.

THE GUARDIAN

The UK’s role in ending the Ukraine war is increasingly under scrutiny as Donald Trump pushes US-Russia peace talks without Kyiv’s direct involvement. John Harris, joined by Patrick Wintour and Gaby Hinsliff, discusses whether Ukraine can accept a deal brokered without its input and how Europe, particularly the UK, might respond.

With Keir Starmer advocating a “US backstop” to deter future Russian aggression, Britain could contribute to a European security framework, possibly including troop deployments for peacekeeping. However, divisions remain among European leaders over military commitments. Could the UK serve as a bridge between the US and Europe, or will it be sidelined in key negotiations?

SKY NEWS

The UK and other European nations are considering deploying up to 30,000 troops to Ukraine as part of a post-war “reassurance force,” officials say. The mission—distinct from peacekeeping—would secure cities, ports, and nuclear sites to encourage refugee returns.

Discussions include RAF jets policing Ukrainian airspace and Royal Navy warships aiding Black Sea security. However, Prime Minister Keir Starmer insists any European deployment hinges on a US “backstop” to deter further Russian aggression. While Donald Trump remains non-committal, his defence secretary rejects US troop involvement. Moscow has declared any NATO deployment “unacceptable.”