Europe considering deploying up to 30,000 troops in Ukraine – The Washington Post

That’s according to The Washington Post, Ukrinform reports.

The latest iteration of European planning envisions a “reassurance” or “deterrence” force of a few brigades, possibly 25,000 to 30,000 troops, who would not be stationed along the contact line but would stand ready as a show of force if Russian forces tried to restart the war.

Additionally, the troops could be backstopped by more forces outside Ukraine in case they need to ramp up and move quickly.

France estimates that it could commit nearly 10,000 troops, although other European allies have so far been more uneasy or contending with constrained militaries.

France and Britain, the only two nuclear powers among the Europeans, have been at the forefront of the discussions, which have involved at least a dozen countries, including Poland, the Netherlands, Germany, and Nordic and Baltic states.

Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans told The Washington Post the plan would need more than just U.S. political backing.

Another key question for the Europeans is how to respond if Russia were to attack the force. One proposal was for a mutual-defense clause among countries involved in the European coalition, which would not operate under the NATO flag.

For many European states, a deployment would also require public support at home and draw on already stretched military resources.

Some countries, such as Poland or Germany, have national elections coming up and are wary of making big moves at a time when Russia’s war in Ukraine has become more politicized.

Some have also been nervous about taking risks without greater U.S. involvement. And the Netherlands, for example, will need approval from parliament.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced for the first time on Sunday, February 16, that he was ready to deploy British boots in Ukraine as part of a deal “if necessary,” which will pressure other European leaders to make similar pledges

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