France and UK plan air power-backed ‘reassurance force’ in postwar Ukraine – The Irish Times

A New Security Force for Ukraine?

France and Britain are crafting plans for a “reassurance force” that would utilize western air power, supported by the U.S., to enforce any ceasefire agreement in Ukraine and dissuade potential Russian aggression.

Air Power Takes Center Stage

These plans, still in development, emphasize a greater role for western air forces compared to earlier proposals from European leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, which might have involved deploying large numbers of ground troops to Ukraine. Instead, the strategy focuses on a domain where western militaries hold a clear advantage – their airpower. Ground troops would initially be deployed to safeguard crucial Ukrainian sites, including ports and nuclear power plants.

A Fearsome Deterrent

Western officials aim to establish a formidable deterrent that would discourage Russia from violating any ceasefire agreement, ultimately fostering long-lasting peace in Ukraine. As one western official stated, “The area we have a notable advantage over Russia is in the air and in [our] ability to respond to [any] flagrant abuses of a ceasefire. It is a punitive approach, to be able to punish Russia if that were to emerge.” The official emphasized, however, that “the whole idea is that the challenge does not emerge.”

Diplomatic Efforts and Uncertainties

Senior U.S. and russian diplomats agreed in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to negotiate a settlement to end the war.However, concerns remain due to recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy, raising fears that a negotiated deal might favor russia.

A “US Backstop”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stressed that any European military contribution to enforcing a Ukraine ceasefire would require a strong security guarantee from the U.S. He stated, “A US security guarantee is the only effective way to deter Russia from attacking Ukraine again.”

The Future of the Force

Officials acknowledge that the plan is still being refined and could eventually involve a significant deployment of land forces, either within Ukraine or on its western borders. A western official noted,”Troops on the ground would need to be ready to fight to deter.” Discussions are underway between various capitals and NATO military leadership about the potential deployment.

leadership and Collaboration

The ukraine mission could be led by the Combined Joint Expeditionary Force, a Franco-British unit, with command based in either London or paris. Other European countries are expected to contribute. A western official said, “Discussions are still in progress, with several countries. Different modes of action are envisaged depending on the countries, with air power playing its part.”

While details continue to be ironed out, the proposed force represents a significant escalation in Western involvement in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the importance of airpower and international collaboration to deter further aggression. The success of this strategy hinges on effective coordination between NATO allies, building upon the diplomatic efforts currently underway.

What are the capabilities and potential contributions of European countries,particularly in the realm of airpower,too this proposed security force?

A New Security Force for Ukraine? Interview wiht General Amelia Hart

Air Power Takes Center Stage

Archyde: General Hart,thank you for joining us today. Let’s discuss the latest plans for a “reassurance force” in Ukraine, rumored to emphasize airpower. Can you shed some light on this approach?

General Hart: Thank you for having me. Indeed, we’re exploring a strategy that maximizes the strength of western militaries – our airpower. By utilizing our air forces, backed by the U.S., we aim to enforce any ceasefire agreement without resorting to mass ground troop deployment.

A Fearsome Deterrent

Archyde: How can this air-focused strategy dissuade potential Russian aggression and foster long-lasting peace?

General hart: Our goal is to create a formidable deterrent. By demonstrating our ability to respond swiftly and severely to any flagrant abuses of a ceasefire, we send a clear message to Russia that aggression will not go unpunished.It’s about having a credible, punitive approach ready – so the challenge never materializes.

Diplomatic Efforts and Uncertainties

Archyde: Senior U.S. and Russian diplomats are engaged in peace talks. But recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump have raised concerns. How might this affect the proposed security force?

General Hart: It’s crucial that diplomatic efforts succeed. However, we must also acknowledge potential challenges, including political headwinds. Our planning considers such uncertainties,ensuring we’re prepared for all contingencies. A strong, united western response is our best guarantee of peace.

A “US Backstop”

Archyde: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stresses the importance of a U.S. security guarantee. How vital is this to the success of the European military contribution?

General Hart: A robust U.S. backstop is essential. It not only bolsters our deterrent capability but also reassures our European allies and Ukraine. With a strong U.S. commitment, we send an unambiguous message to Russia that any transgression against Ukraine will face serious consequences.

The Future of the Force

Archyde: Current plans emphasize airpower, but are troops on the ground still on the table? What’s the timeline for deployment?

General Hart: Indeed, discussions are ongoing about potential troop deployments, either within Ukraine or on its western borders.Our planning is dynamic; it adapts to evolving circumstances.lide advice_138240 asption is that any ground force would need to be combat-ready to deter aggression. As for timing, that will depend on diplomatic progress and the stability of the ceasefire.

Leadership and Collaboration

Archyde: Who might lead this mission, and what role will other European countries play?

General Hart: The Combined Joint Expeditionary Force, a Franco-British unit, is a strong candidate for leadership. But ultimately, that decision is for our political leaders to make. We’ve seen encouraging interest from other european nations. Each will contribute as their capabilities and commitments allow, with air power being a meaningful part of that contribution.

Archyde: General Hart, thank you for sharing yoru insights. As we wrap up, what’s one key thought you’d like our readers to take away from this conversation?

General Hart: The future of Ukraine’s security hinges on effective international coordination and collaboration. Our success relies not just on military might,but also on diplomacy,unity,and a shared commitment to preserving peace. It’s a complex challenge, but one I’m confident we can meet.