**US President Trump Backs UK Military, But European Leaders Are Still Worried**
US President Donald Trump thinks the British military is very capable. He said they have “incredible soldiers and a great military” that can take care of themselves. However, he did not say if Britain could take on Russia.
Senior US generals praise the professionalism of the British armed forces in public, but are critical of recent cuts to their size. The UK Army now has just over 70,000 regular troops, which some consider too small.
**Russia’s Military Spending Is Increasing**
Russia is spending more money on its military than Europe as a whole. Its defense budget has increased by 41% and is now equivalent to 6.7% of GDP. In contrast, the UK will spend just 2.5% of its GDP on defense by 2027.
**US Won’t Send Troops to Ukraine**
President Trump does not plan to send American troops to Ukraine to police any ceasefire. Any US presence in Ukraine will be economic, aimed at exploiting mining interests. He thinks this could deter Russia from attacking again, but even his administration believes there needs to be some hard power too.
**European Nations Must Step Up**
It’s up to European nations to provide the military might needed to defend Ukraine. However, they lack the numbers and capabilities to do so on their own. The question is whether Europe has the will and the ability to provide a force of 30,000 troops.
**Western Officials Call for US Help**
Western officials are thinking of a force of up to 30,000 troops that would focus on providing “reassurance” at key sites in Ukraine. They would not be placed near the current front lines in Eastern Ukraine. European jets and warships would help monitor Ukraine’s airspace and shipping lanes.
**Calls for US Backstop**
Western officials are calling for a US “backstop” to give them confidence that any forces deployed will not be challenged by Russia. The US could provide oversight, command and control elements, and fighter jets ready to respond from its airbases in Poland and Romania.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
