OPINION: France and the UK may be willing to send troops to Ukraine, but do they have the military strength?
Briefly

France and Britain have proposed a 30,000-troop peacekeeping force for Ukraine, though President Zelensky argues that ten times that number is necessary to deter Russia. With both countries facing severe troop and equipment shortages, EU leaders plan to discuss financing a stronger European military presence. The reliance on US support has been problematic, exposing gaps in European defense capabilities. This situation reflects a long-standing complacency regarding Eastern threats, which was exacerbated by shifting US political views on Russia. Emmanuel Macron has long called for a stronger European defense strategy.
France and Britain are contemplating a peacekeeping force for Ukraine, envisioning 30,000 troops, while President Zelensky insists ten times that number is necessary.
Despite having wealthier democratic nations, Europe faces significant gaps in military resources without US support, leading to a collective reevaluation of defense strategies.
The current situation reveals a prolonged illusion of safety in Europe, which collapsed post-Crimea and further with the US political landscape becoming sympathetic to Russian narratives.
Macron has been advocating for a robust independent European defense capability within or outside of NATO, emphasizing the urgency post-Ukraine invasion.
Read at www.thelocal.fr
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