The article discusses the potential for a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine, and how US support is crucial for its effectiveness. The author argues that Trump‘s alignment with Russia has derailed efforts to establish such a force.
Key points:
* A European peacekeeping force would require significant risks, including constant risk of fire.
* The effectiveness of the force depends on rules of engagement and guarantees from other countries, particularly the US.
* Europeans need a “backstop” or security guarantee from the US for their troops to be effective.
* Without such a guarantee, there is considerable risk that European troops would be targeted by Russia.
* US involvement could increase deterrence capability and encourage more European countries to contribute to the force.
The article concludes that Trump’s alignment with Russia has made it difficult to secure US support for a peacekeeping force in Ukraine.