LONDON – The United Kingdom announced on Saturday that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering joining a coalition of nations prepared to help protect a future ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war. The coalition, spearheaded by Britain and France, aims to provide security assurances for Ukraine amid uncertainty over the United States’ long-term commitment to European security under President Donald Trump.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Albanese on Saturday, welcoming Australia’s willingness to explore contributing to the initiative. “He looked forward to the Chiefs of Defence meeting in Paris on Tuesday,” Starmer’s office said in a statement. As Trump pushes for direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, European nations have been intensifying their efforts to support Ukraine. Some have expressed willingness to deploy troops as a security guarantee.
While details of the coalition remain unclear, Starmer referenced the initiative during a European leaders’ summit in London last Sunday, where discussions focused on ensuring “lasting peace” in Ukraine.
A UK official revealed that talks had been held with about 20 countries—primarily European and Commonwealth partners—interested in joining the coalition. However, specific nations have not yet been named. Earlier this week, Albanese told reporters that Australia was “ready to assist” Ukraine and open to discussions about peacekeeping efforts.
“There’s discussion at the moment about potential peacekeeping,” he said. “From my government’s perspective, we’re open to consideration of any proposals going forward.”
The move signals Australia’s continued commitment to global security partnerships and Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.