Europe says it will defend Ukraine. Here's how to do it

Donald Trump’s eagerness to end the war in Ukraine forces Europe to confront a simple question: can it deter Russia from restarting hostilities alone? There is ample evidence that the Kremlin, which has struggled to overcome Ukraine, does not believe it could militarily confront the European continent.

- Jack Watling

Throughout its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has studiously avoided actions that could draw others into hostilities. Such an enlarged fight could turn nuclear, which while catastrophic for Europe would be no better for Russia.

European nations have demonstrated that they have little interest in committing themselves to fight for Ukraine. There is a significant risk that Europe puts small “tripwire” forces into the country and Russia calls Europe’s bluff, anticipating that it will withdraw. If Europe fights, then both sides risk a power war between nuclear powers that neither wants.