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UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently reflected on the progress made since his “coalition of the willing” proposal emerged at a summit at Lancaster House two weeks ago. His observation is well-founded, as the relationship between the US and Ukraine has undergone significant developments, highlighted by the recent agreement on a 30-day ceasefire reached in Riyadh.
However, the coalition itself remains an ambitious and somewhat unclear initiative, and much groundwork is still required before this informal alliance can effectively manage the complex and potentially dangerous task of maintaining peace in Ukraine.
According to Sir Keir, the coalition has expanded, with “new commitments” now being discussed, although he did not specify what these commitments entail. During a virtual summit held on Saturday morning, participants agreed to continue supplying military aid to Ukraine and to impose stricter economic sanctions on Russia with the aim of undermining President Vladimir Putin’s military capabilities.
Sir Keir indicated that planning is transitioning to an “operational phase,” with military leaders scheduled to meet in the UK next Thursday. He expressed optimism, stating, “Overall, we are successfully gathering political and military momentum.”
This process is expected to involve a series of political, diplomatic, and military engagements as the coalition takes shape. However, obstacles remain on the horizon.
When asked about crucial US military support for a potential European-led initiative—referred to as a “backstop”—the Prime Minister reiterated that the US stance has not shifted. European national security advisors, including Jonathan Powell, known for persuading Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to consider the US ceasefire proposal, were in Washington on Friday. The success of Sir Keir’s coalition could hinge on whether President Donald Trump alters his position regarding this military support.
For President Zelensky, the urgency is palpable as the military situation in Kursk deteriorates, where Ukrainian forces have been holding onto a dwindling section of Russian territory since August 2024. Ukraine firmly refutes claims that its troops are encircled in Kursk—a narrative endorsed by Trump—but it is evident that they are under intense pressure and losing ground.
During a visit to Kyiv late last year, Ukrainian soldiers indicated that they were retaining control of territory in Kursk as leverage for future negotiations. However, as talks draw nearer, it appears that Putin is eager to eliminate this leverage ahead of negotiations.
This urgency may account for his equivocal response regarding the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Source
www.bbc.com