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European Troop Plans for Ukraine Slashed from 30,000 to 6,000–10,000
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![Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk]( "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
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President Trump has signaled support for providing security guarantees to Ukraine alongside French and British proposals for a “reassurance force.” Although Northern European nations including the Netherlands, Denmark, and Estonia have expressed readiness to contribute troops, ambitious plans for a 30,000-strong force have been scaled back. France and the UK now plan a combined 6,000–10,000 troops, The Wall Street Journal reported on August 26.
However, public opinion in many European countries remains cautious. In Germany, for example, 56% of respondents opposed a military contribution, while parliament approval would be required for any deployment. Concerns include stretching military resources and historical sensitivities, The Wall Street Journal writes.
Eastern European countries such as Poland worry about diverting troops from their borders, and opposition is also strong in Italy and Germany.
In France, support depends on a formal peace accord rather than a temporary ceasefire, with surveys showing 67% approval if a peace deal is reached. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that troops would be stationed at airports and critical infrastructure, avoiding front-line combat.
The UK has said deployment would depend on US guarantees and would likely focus on maritime and air support, as well as training Ukrainian forces, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Populist leaders across the continent, including Italy’s Matteo Salvini, have criticized the proposals, and Poland has ruled out sending forces, citing risks of escalation on its borders, The Wall Street Journal claims.
European leaders argue that a limited deployment is vital to demonstrate commitment to Ukraine and deter further Russian aggression, but public and political hesitancy may limit the scale and scope of any operation.
Previously, it was reported that The United States is prepared to play a role in ensuring Ukraine’s security after the war by providing intelligence, surveillance, and air defense support, Financial Times reported.
