Asger Risom
Lack of manpower and political will cast doubt on Europe’s ability to deploy a peace force
Despite soaring defense budgets and years of military buildup, European countries are facing serious challenges in mounting a coordinated peacekeeping presence in Ukraine.
Internal discussions reveal a stark lack of capacity and political consensus, casting doubt on the continent’s ability to act independently of U.S. support.
A Coalition of the Willing—With Limits
According to Digi24, Admiral Tony Radakin, Britain’s Chief of the Defense Staff, recently asked European defense ministers if they could commit to sending 64,000 troops in the event of a Ukraine peace agreement.
The answer was overwhelmingly negative. Some leaders suggested that even assembling 25,000 would be a stretch.
Lithuania’s defense minister reportedly told counterparts, “If we can’t gather even 64,000 troops, we’re not just looking weak—we are weak.”
The statement highlights growing anxiety about Europe’s military preparedness in contrast to Russia’s 800,000-strong forces.
From Troop Deployment to Training Missions
Britain and France are now reportedly shifting focus from sending ground troops to deploying training personnel in western Ukraine, far from the front lines.
This reflects concern over escalation risks and domestic political barriers.
Nations like Estonia and Finland fear troop deployments could undermine their own border defenses, while countries like Poland, Spain, and Italy have declined to contribute soldiers altogether.
Sources suggest that France might match Britain’s potential deployment of 5,000 to 10,000 troops, but without broad European support, such efforts may fall short of deterrence goals.
Deep Dependence on U.S. Capabilities
The inability to mount a sizable European mission underscores continued reliance on American logistics and firepower. The British Army itself is reportedly stretched, lacking artillery and basic transport equipment—resources traditionally supplied by the U.S.
Going forward, European support for Ukraine is expected to center on rebuilding the Ukrainian military and enhancing air and maritime defense. While operational planning is underway for possible land, sea, and air deployments, current expectations focus on small-scale military training efforts rather than a robust peacekeeping force.