A significant division has emerged among European nations regarding UK leader Sir Keir Starmer's recent pledge to send troops to Ukraine, which coincides with US President Donald Trump's proposal for direct peace talks with Vladimir Putin.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey is addressing this growing divide, as discussions among allies intensify over their commitments to Ukraine.

The split was sparked by Starmer's commitment to troop deployment, prompting various nations to reassess their positions.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged European nations to increase their defense spending, advocating for a target of 5 percent of GDP.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that while Poland would not send troops, it would continue to support Ukraine through humanitarian and military aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine will not accept any agreements made without its involvement, emphasizing the importance of its participation in peace talks.

Starmer expressed willingness to contribute to security guarantees by deploying British troops, contingent upon a US backstop to deter further Russian aggression.

Former British Army chief Lord Richard Dannatt supported the call for a peacekeeping force but cautioned about the UK's current military limitations and the costs associated with such an operation.

Hungary and Slovakia are also unlikely to contribute troops, given their governments' close ties to Russia.

Other nations, including Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain, remain undecided on troop deployment, seeking further assurances before making commitments.

Concerns about potential reductions in US defense commitments to Europe were highlighted at an emergency summit in Paris, especially in light of Trump's plans to negotiate directly with Russia.

This summit underscored fears that Trump's approach could sideline European involvement in Ukraine negotiations, prompting urgent discussions among leaders.