Ex-Army head says UK and Europe must step up over Ukraine

The UK and European nations may need to provide security assurances to Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia, regardless of whether the US offers support, according to former British armed forces chief General Sir Nick Carter. Speaking on a BBC One Question Time special, Carter emphasized that Ukraine should determine what constitutes a "fair settlement," but urged European nations to take responsibility for ensuring Ukraine's sovereignty if the US is unwilling to do so.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is set to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington next Thursday, has stated that a US security guarantee is "the only way to effectively deter Russia." Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary David Lammy reaffirmed the UK’s openness to dialogue with Russia if it is genuinely seeking peace while condemning "Tsarist imperialism."

Tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have escalated in recent days, particularly after the US announced plans to enter direct negotiations with Russia.

Sir Keir indicated that the UK would be open to deploying peacekeeping troops if required but stressed that a US "backstop" would be necessary to maintain stability and prevent further Russian aggression. While he did not specify what this would entail, some suggest it could involve air support, logistics, and intelligence-sharing.

Trump recently stated that he "would not object" to European nations deploying peacekeeping troops but emphasized that the US would not need to send its own forces, citing geographic distance.

During his visit to the US, Starmer is expected to reaffirm support for Ukraine while attempting to influence Trump's stance on negotiations with Russia. His meeting follows a planned visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, who will meet Trump on Monday to coordinate a European approach.

Macron has also spoken with Zelensky to discuss diplomatic efforts ahead of his trip. Similarly, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed Canada's backing for Ukraine, stressing that Kyiv must be directly involved in any negotiations to end the war.

Meanwhile, China has expressed support for Trump’s decision to engage in talks with Russia. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking at the G20 summit in South Africa, stated that China backs "all efforts conducive to peace" and noted that global calls for negotiations have been increasing.