UK assembles 30-nation 'coalition of the willing' for Ukraine, troops expected from multiple countries

Sky News reported the information, citing UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesman.

On Saturday, leaders from 26 Western nations, along with top EU officials and NATO’s secretary general, participated in a virtual meeting hosted by Starmer after Ukraine’s president agreed to a temporary ceasefire. Military chiefs are now set to meet Thursday to discuss the next phase of operations, including the potential deployment of a peacekeeping force—should a deal with Russia be reached.

While the UK and France have confirmed their participation, Starmer’s spokesman declined to specify which other nations would send troops. He emphasized that contributions would vary, with some nations providing military personnel and others offering different forms of support.

When asked about the rules of engagement for British forces in Ukraine, the spokesman sidestepped direct answers but pointedly remarked: “It’s worth remembering that Russia didn’t ask Ukraine when it deployed troops.”

The U.S. has so far remained outside the coalition, and it is unclear whether it will join Thursday’s military discussions. However, Starmer’s office confirmed that regular talks with Washington are ongoing.