UK Leaders Push for Troop Deployment to Ukraine

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is planning a visit to Kiev to discuss the potential deployment of British troops as part of a post-war peacekeeping force. Former defense secretaries Grant Shapps and Gavin Williamson advocate for this move, arguing that it is essential for backing Ukraine's security and should be complemented by a bold path towards NATO membership for Ukraine. While Shapps emphasizes the importance of Ukraine's struggle for freedom and sovereignty, he critiques Starmer for delaying his visit to Ukraine since taking office. Williamson echoes the sentiment that any peace plan must prioritize Ukraine's interests and involve a physical commitment from allies. The proposal for peacekeeping troops follows discussions initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this year. However, some caution is urged by European leaders regarding the implications of deploying troops, with concerns that it could escalate tensions.