**European Leaders Slow to Act on Ukraine Peacekeeping Force**
As the world waits for a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen is sounding the alarm. He believes that European leaders are moving too slowly to prepare for a peacekeeping force deployment in Ukraine.
Rasmussen’s comments come as part of an alliance of 31 countries, led by the UK and France, which has pledged to participate in a peacekeeping mission on Ukrainian territory. However, despite claims of progress, only six participating countries have expressed willingness to contribute troops. Many other European nations are holding back, citing concerns about the mission’s mandate, objectives, and response to possible Russian escalation.
**A “Coalition of the Waiting”?**
Rasmussen is worried that this coalition risks becoming a “coalition of the waiting,” rather than taking decisive action to support Ukraine. He notes that many key operational questions remain unanswered publicly, including the mission’s mandate, rules of engagement, and which countries will contribute troops.
The UK has promised to deploy over 10,000 troops to Ukraine, but Defense Minister John Healey has clarified that these forces will be stationed away from the frontlines and focused on building up Ukraine’s armed forces. This is a significant shift in tone, as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer initially suggested a more direct deterrent role for UK troops.
**Russia Invests More in Defense Than All European Countries Combined**
Rasmussen also made another striking point: Russia is now investing more in defense than all European countries combined. This is a stark reminder of the significant power imbalance at play in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. As Europe struggles to come together to support Ukraine, it’s clear that there’s still much work to be done.
**A Call for Action**
Rasmussen’s comments are a call to action for European leaders. With the world watching, it’s time for them to put aside their differences and take decisive action to support Ukraine. As Rasmussen said, “Preparations for European force deployment after a potential Ukraine ceasefire are advancing too slowly.” It’s time for Europe to step up and show that they’re committed to supporting Ukraine in its hour of need.
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