British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on European nations to take a greater role in securing lasting peace in Ukraine, committing for the first time to the possibility of deploying British troops to support any future deal with Russia.

In an op-ed for The Telegraph published Sunday, Starmer described the situation as:

“A once-in-a-generation moment for the collective security of our continent.”

“This is not only a question about the future of Ukraine—it is existential for Europe as a whole.”

Starmer pledged that the UK will take a leading role in crafting security guarantees for Ukraine, emphasizing:

• A commitment of nearly $4 billion to support Kyiv’s military until at least 2030
• A willingness to contribute troops if necessary to help secure any peace agreement with Russia

“I do not say that lightly,” Starmer wrote, acknowledging the gravity of potentially deploying British servicemen and women to Ukraine.

“But any role in helping to guarantee Ukraine’s security is helping to guarantee the security of our continent and this country.”

Starmer’s stance makes him one of the few NATO leaders to suggest putting allied troops on the ground inside Ukraine to support a peace deal.

Other leaders who have floated similar proposals include:

• French President Emmanuel Macron, who has led discussions on security commitments for Ukraine
• Baltic states such as Estonia and Lithuania, which have expressed willingness to consider such measures

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly insisted that Western security guarantees must be a core part of any peace deal with Russia.

While Ukraine seeks rapid NATO accession for protection under Article 5 collective defense, many Western allies remain hesitant or outright opposed to fast-tracking Kyiv’s membership.

Starmer’s announcement follows a turbulent week in NATO-Ukraine relations, as U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally announced direct peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump’s top officials have also signaled the limits of U.S. support for Kyiv, raising concerns among European leaders about America’s long-term commitment to Ukraine.

With the UK positioning itself as a key player in post-war security arrangements, Starmer’s pledge signals a major shift in Europe’s approach to defending Ukraine and deterring future Russian aggression.