Britain and France working on plans for ‘reassurance force’ to protect Ukraine
GuardianFEB 20
Europe Plans 30K-Strong Force to Secure Post-War Ukraine
Above: French Pres. Emmanuel Macron meets with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in the Elysée Palace to discuss Ukraine and European security on Feb. 17, 2025. Image copyright: Tom Nicholson/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The European security force represents a crucial step toward strategic autonomy and demonstrates Europe's commitment to Ukraine's long-term security, while the modest troop numbers and focused mandate make it a realistic and sustainable option for preventing future Russian aggression — and also standing up to the whims of the US.
Narrative B
The proposed force is inadequate for deterring Russian aggression and could potentially escalate tensions with Moscow because Europe's limited military capabilities make it impossible to sustain such a mission without substantial US involvement. This shows that, despite the US urging Europe to take on a more robust security posture, there is nothing more valuable than a transatlantic alliance.