Macron and Starmer will convince Trump to support peacekeeping mission in Ukraine

The Wall Street Journal writes that the UK and France have proposed a plan to deploy up to 30,000 European troops for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. However, the success of this mission hinges on securing U.S. approval for a limited military role, a move that is currently under negotiation.

According to reports, the peacekeeping force will focus on protecting key infrastructure, cities, and ports, including those in the Black Sea, rather than being stationed along the frontline. Drones and satellites will monitor the situation to ensure Russia adheres to ceasefire agreements.

While the European plan does not require the deployment of U.S. troops in Ukraine, it does rely on American support in terms of military capabilities. The U.S. could place air defense systems in neighboring countries to bolster European forces, while American air force units could be put on standby to assist if European troops face danger.

The plan is set to be discussed further in high-level talks between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and U.S. President Donald Trump. However, without Trump's support, the peacekeeping mission could face significant challenges.

European officials emphasize that American participation is critical to deterring Russian attacks, encouraging other European countries to send troops, and providing the multinational force with essential capabilities that European forces currently lack. Despite this, Trump's ongoing desire to strengthen ties with Russia poses a significant hurdle, and his reluctance to position U.S. forces as adversaries to Putin’s troops complicates the situation.

With the anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaching, the discussions between Macron and Trump will shape the future of the peacekeeping mission and the broader support for Ukraine. Without U.S. backing, the European plan may struggle to move forward.

• The Economist claims that Donald Trump and his team would like to get rid of the current Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom they consider an inconvenient negotiator.