Virtual Over‑the‑Edge Summit: Britain, France & the Future of Ukrainian Troops
What happened:
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer held a virtual pow‑wow with more than 30 key leaders from the so‑called Coalition of the Willing.
- French President Emmanuel Macron co‑chairing the session sparked talk about deploying “several thousand boots” to Ukraine as a peace‑keeping insertion.
- The UK and EU want a security guarantee roadmap, but there’s still no final, public decision. Russia sees it as a NATO cliff next to its backyard and has waved it off.
Russia’s Stand‑off
Federation foreign minister Sergei Lavrov went on state television to make it clear: without full respect for Russian interests and the rights of Russian‑speaking people in Ukraine, long‑term deals are off the table. He’s essentially saying “Yes, we’re listening, but not enough.”
U.S. & EU Dynamics
- Donald Trump keeps the American troops on the sidelines but suggests a hop‑in for aerial support.
- EU leaders, led by German & French officials, push for a summit in Geneva where a “neutral” host could allow Putin to attend, with the Swiss offering “immunity” to bypass legal barriers.
- Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani says Italy backs the Geneva idea, “because it’s a peace‑lover country.”
Key Highlights from the Downing Street Statement
Starmer said: The meeting was “constructive”—there’s unity and a common goal to secure a just, lasting peace in Ukraine.
Next steps? A tightened sanctions agenda to put pressure on Putin; coalition partners will sync closely with U.S. teams to roll out security guarantees and prepare for a safety force if the conflict cools.
“Will keep you all posted as we move forward,” Starmer added.
What’s Next?
With all eyes on Geneva and the U.S., the Coalition of the Willing is set to fight for sanctions, talk up a peace summit, and keep the conversation rolling—while Russia stays stubbornly on the sidelines.
