UK and France Would Send Troops to Ukraine if Peace Deal Is Signed, Starmer Confirms After Paris Talks

The prospect of Western military involvement in Ukraine took a notable turn this week as UK Labour leader Keir Starmer stated that both the United Kingdom and France would be willing to deploy troops to the country if a peace agreement is reached. Starmer, speaking after high-level discussions in Paris, emphasized that such a commitment would be contingent on a formal and internationally recognized accord between Ukraine and Russia.
Context of Starmer’s Statement
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe, with the war in Ukraine entering its fourth year. Starmer, who is widely viewed as a potential future Prime Minister, met with French political and military leaders to discuss coordinated responses to the conflict, as well as the role Europe could play in post-war reconstruction and security guarantees.
While the UK and France have already provided Ukraine with military aid, including equipment, intelligence, and training, this is the first time a major UK opposition figure has publicly committed to sending ground troops in the event of a peace deal. Starmer clarified that the deployment would not be unilateral but coordinated with NATO allies and under international legal frameworks.
Why Troop Deployment Is Being Considered
Experts say that Starmer’s comments reflect a broader recognition of the need for security guarantees for Ukraine if negotiations result in a ceasefire or peace treaty. According to analysts, Ukraine’s military, while resilient, may require a stabilizing international presence to ensure that agreed terms are respected, particularly in regions previously occupied by Russian forces.
“This is about deterrence and assurance,” says Dr. Fiona Clarke, a European security analyst. “The presence of UK and French troops, even in a limited capacity, could provide a framework for enforcing agreements, monitoring borders, and preventing renewed hostilities.”
Reaction From Political Circles
The comments have sparked a mix of support and skepticism. Some British lawmakers have praised Starmer for presenting a concrete plan for post-conflict support, suggesting that it could strengthen the UK’s role on the global stage. Others, however, have expressed caution, noting the potential risks of committing troops to an active conflict zone, even under the guise of peacekeeping.
In France, President Emmanuel Macron and his defense team welcomed discussions of coordinated European involvement, though French officials have yet to confirm whether Paris would formally commit troops until a peace deal is finalized.
The proposal also raises questions about the role of NATO and international legal frameworks. Any deployment would require approval from multiple stakeholders and a clear mandate defining the troops’ responsibilities, rules of engagement, and exit strategy.
Implications for Ukraine
For Ukraine, the prospect of Western troops on the ground could be a significant bargaining tool in peace negotiations. It would signal strong international backing and potentially reduce the risk of violations by opposing forces. Ukrainian officials have long sought guarantees that any settlement would be enforceable and that their territorial integrity would be respected in the long term.
“Having allied troops present could dramatically alter the negotiation dynamics,” says Ivan Petrov, a Kyiv-based political analyst. “It reassures Ukraine that peace terms would be monitored and upheld, rather than relying solely on Russian compliance.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite the potential benefits, implementing such a plan would not be without challenges. Logistics, political consensus, and the ever-present risk of escalation remain critical considerations. Additionally, public opinion in the UK and France may be divided, with many citizens wary of foreign military engagements following previous conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya.
There is also the delicate balance of sending a stabilizing force without provoking renewed tensions with Russia. Diplomats note that careful messaging and clear rules of engagement would be essential to prevent misunderstandings or accidental escalations.
Looking Forward
Starmer’s comments underscore the evolving nature of Western support for Ukraine. While military aid has been the primary focus, the potential for troop deployment highlights the broader strategy of preparing for both wartime contingencies and post-conflict stabilization.
The coming months are likely to involve continued diplomatic negotiations, careful planning, and ongoing consultation with NATO allies. Should a peace deal materialize, the decisions made by the UK, France, and their allies could define the security landscape of Eastern Europe for decades to come.
Ultimately, Starmer’s proposal signals a willingness among Western powers to go beyond material support and commit to tangible, on-the-ground security measures—a development that could prove pivotal in shaping the post-war reality for Ukraine and the broader European region.