Where exactly is the UK positioning itself in this changing world order? | DW News

Key Concepts

• UK's role as a potential bridge between the US and EU
• Kier Starmer's foreign policy and relationship with Donald Trump
• European security and defense in the context of the Ukraine war
• The "coalition of the willing" and European efforts to support Ukraine
• The UK's military capabilities and limitations
• The concept of a "reassurance force" in Ukraine and its feasibility

UK's New Security Role in Europe

• Main Point: British Prime Minister Kier Starmer is taking a leading role in new security efforts in Europe and the West, aiming for a reset with the EU based on mutual defense.
• Details:
  • Starmer aims to bridge the gap between the EU and the US, leveraging his good relations with Donald Trump.
  • The UK's nuclear submarines are a source of national pride and are considered paramount for Europe's security.
  • The UK has a special relationship for intelligence sharing with the US, Canada, and Australia (Five Eyes), giving it a unique strategic advantage.
• Example: A group of UK members of parliament visited Estonia and Finland and received a positive reception from military leaders.
• Quote: Frat Thomas, a former Royal Marine, stated that the UK and France provide a nuclear shield for Europe along with America.
• Logical Connection: This section sets the stage for the UK's ambition to play a central role in European security, particularly in light of perceived US unreliability.

UK-EU Relations and Brexit

• Main Point: Starmer is seeking to negotiate access for British companies to a new European defense program and smoother trade relations with the EU.
• Details:
  • The UK has been "sitting a bit awkwardly on the sidelines" since Brexit.
  • Starmer is walking a tightrope, staying close to President Trump while reaching out to European allies.
  • Brexit has allowed the UK to position itself as an intermediary between the US and the EU.
• Quote: "We've lent in and said 'We'll play our part.'" - This quote highlights the UK's willingness to contribute to European security.
• Logical Connection: This section explains the UK's post-Brexit positioning and its attempts to re-engage with the EU on security and trade matters.

The "Coalition of the Willing" and Support for Ukraine

• Main Point: The UK is bringing together a "coalition of the willing" to coordinate military help for Ukraine.
• Details:
  • Starmer acted quickly to create the coalition after a "debacle" in the White House with President Zelensky.
  • The coalition is a signal to the Trump administration that Europe is taking charge of its own security.
  • However, the coalition insists on a US backstop.
• Quote: "We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk, it's time to act, time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace." - This quote emphasizes the urgency and importance of the UK's leadership role.
• Logical Connection: This section focuses on the UK's proactive role in supporting Ukraine and its efforts to mobilize European allies.

UK's Military Capabilities and Limitations

• Main Point: While the UK sees itself as an important military power, its capabilities are being questioned.
• Details:
  • The UK is one of the only European nuclear powers, along with France.
  • The UK has strong intelligence sharing with the US.
  • However, the UK's nuclear submarine rockets are made and maintained in the US, raising questions about US reliability.
  • A former defense secretary admitted that the British army has been "hollowed out" due to cuts.
  • A military think tank said that the British army can do some things well but not on an impressive scale.
• Logical Connection: This section provides a more nuanced view of the UK's military strength, acknowledging both its assets and its vulnerabilities.

The "Reassurance Force" Concept

• Main Point: The idea of a European "reassurance force" in Ukraine is being discussed, but its feasibility is uncertain.
• Details:
  • The Frankish-British proposal for a reassurance force is being taken seriously by the United States.
  • The force could potentially focus on training, air defense, or the maritime space.
  • However, Russia's opposition to European or NATO troops in Ukraine raises doubts about the deployment.
  • Europeans themselves are not part of the negotiations between the US and Russia.
• Argument: Gazina Vber argues that it is important for Europeans to signal their readiness to take care of European security.
• Logical Connection: This section explores a specific proposal for European involvement in Ukraine and highlights the challenges and uncertainties surrounding its implementation.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The UK, under Kier Starmer, is attempting to carve out a new role in European security by acting as a bridge between the US and the EU. This involves strengthening ties with European allies, leading the "coalition of the willing" to support Ukraine, and leveraging its military and intelligence capabilities. However, the UK faces challenges, including questions about US reliability, limitations in its own military strength, and the complexities of navigating the US-EU relationship. The feasibility of initiatives like the "reassurance force" remains uncertain, highlighting the need for European unity and a clear strategy for engaging with both the US and Russia.