Trump's Confidence in British Military Capabilities Raises Questions About European Security

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Donald Trump's recent comments on the capabilities of Britain's armed forces have raised questions about European security and the ability to deter Russian aggression in Ukraine. When asked about US security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump stated that the British have incredible soldiers and a strong military, implying that they can take care of themselves. However, this statement has left many wondering whether the UK military could take on Russia, and whether European nations have the necessary capabilities to provide a strong deterrent.

The US president's comments underscore the reality that he is not contemplating putting American troops on the ground in Ukraine to police any ceasefire. Instead, any US presence will be economic, aimed at exploiting mining interests, and it will be up to European nations to provide the necessary hard power. The question is not just whether Europe has the will to do so, but also whether it has the numbers. The short answer is no, and this is why Sir Keir Starmer has been pressing for additional US security guarantees from the world's most powerful military.

Britain is not alone in cutting its armed forces in response to the end of the Cold War, and this trend in Europe is slowly being reversed, with more nations increasing defence spending. However, Europe on its own would not be able to provide a force of 100-200,000 international troops, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggests would be needed to deter Russia from attacking again. Instead, Western officials have said they're thinking of a force of up to 30,000 troops, with European jets and warships helping to monitor Ukraine's airspace and shipping lanes. This force would be focused on providing reassurance at key sites, such as Ukraine's cities, ports, and nuclear power stations.

European nations also do not have the necessary enablers to conduct large-scale military operations on their own, and the supply of Western weapons to Ukraine has been dependent on US logistics. Nato's bombing campaign over Libya in 2011 highlighted deficiencies in European capabilities, with European nations relying on US refuelling tankers and US targeting. The US Defence Secretary has previously stated that any international troops sent to Ukraine will be neither a Nato force nor covered by its treaty, and at present, there is no such Nato-style security guarantee. The list of challenges facing European nations includes: * Providing a sufficient number of troops to deter Russian aggression * Having the necessary capabilities to conduct large-scale military operations * Dependence on US logistics and support * Lack of a Nato-style security guarantee * Need for additional US security guarantees

Europe's strength of will is being tested, and the prime minister will soon find out whether warm words from Donald Trump are enough to convince others to join the UK in putting boots on the ground. France is the only other major European power that so far appears to be willing to do the same, while some Northern European nations are willing to consider a commitment, but would like US security guarantees. Sir Keir may still believe there's room for negotiation, but as for Donald Trump's question - would Britain be able to take on Russia's military? Even though Russian forces have been weakened, the answer is no, and this highlights the need for a stronger European security framework.