Senior military figures are set to gather in the UK on Thursday as discussions on a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine move into an “operational phase.” The meeting follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s push to assemble an international coalition capable of enforcing any future peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow.
The latest diplomatic efforts come amid renewed optimism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, following a conversation with US President Donald Trump, expressed his belief that “lasting peace can be achieved this year.”
Defence planners to convene in the UK
Sir Keir is expected to meet with senior defence planners after confirming at the weekend that military chiefs would begin “putting strong and robust plans in place” to support a peace deal and ensure Ukraine’s long-term security.
Speaking at a Downing Street press conference on Saturday, the Prime Minister signalled that preparations were shifting to an “operational phase” and that Thursday’s meeting would be a critical step in defining the role of an international peacekeeping force.
While he did not specify which countries had made concrete commitments, he acknowledged that the discussions would focus on the contributions different nations could make.
“There are different capabilities from different countries, but those are the operational discussions that are going on in relation to what this coalition of the willing will be able to provide,” Sir Keir said.
Diplomatic developments
The push for a ceasefire has gained momentum in recent days, with ongoing discussions between world leaders. On Wednesday, President Zelensky held a call with President Trump, just one day after the US leader spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Zelensky described his conversation with Mr Trump as “positive, very substantive and frank,” stating that Ukraine was “ready to implement” an end to strikes on energy and civilian infrastructure.
He also expressed gratitude for recent discussions in Saudi Arabia and reiterated his belief that “together with America, with President Trump, and under American leadership, lasting peace can be achieved this year.”
US proposes ownership of Ukrainian power plants
A key point of discussion in Wednesday’s call between the US and Ukraine was the security of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. According to a White House statement from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, President Trump suggested that America take ownership of Ukrainian power plants to safeguard them.
The statement outlined that the US could play a vital role in managing Ukraine’s electricity sector, with President Trump reportedly telling Mr Zelensky that “American ownership of those plants could be the best protection for that infrastructure.”
The proposal has sparked debate, with some analysts suggesting that while increased Western involvement in Ukraine’s energy security is essential, direct foreign ownership could prove controversial.
Downing street welcomes progress towards ceasefire
In response to Wednesday’s diplomatic developments, Number 10 welcomed the efforts made by President Trump towards securing a ceasefire.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “We welcome the progress President Trump has made towards a ceasefire deal, and we will continue to work with international partners on putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position.
“We now need to ensure the implementation of the ceasefire deal to see a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”
Zelensky to address European leaders
Beyond discussions with US and UK leaders, President Zelensky is also set to address European leaders on Thursday via video link during a European Council meeting. His remarks are expected to focus on securing continued support from European allies and reinforcing Ukraine’s strategic position in ongoing peace negotiations.
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Starmer to visit Barrow-in-Furness for defence talks
On Thursday, the Prime Minister will also travel to Barrow-in-Furness, a key hub for the UK’s defence industry. He is expected to highlight the town as a model for how increased defence spending can drive economic growth.
During his visit, Sir Keir will take part in a keel-laying ceremony for the first of the Dreadnought-class submarines. This fleet of four nuclear-powered submarines will form the backbone of the UK’s future nuclear deterrent, reinforcing Britain’s defence capabilities at a time of global instability.
A critical moment for diplomacy and defence
As world leaders push for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict, military planners in the UK are preparing for the potential role of international forces in securing any future peace agreement.
With continued diplomatic engagement from the US, UK, and European allies, the coming days could prove pivotal in shaping the next phase of the conflict – whether that means an end to hostilities or further escalations.
Sir Keir’s efforts to rally international support highlight the UK’s commitment to ensuring Ukraine’s stability and security, while broader discussions on defence spending and strategic planning underline the challenges that still lie ahead.
