President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine emphasized the need for tangible security guarantees rather than mere promises on paper during discussions regarding the potential deployment of a European peacekeeping contingent to Ukraine as part of a negotiated settlement with Russia. Zelensky expressed his stance at a news conference in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the importance of having security measures implemented on the ground, in the water, and in the sky, including air defense systems, aircraft, and naval vessels.
Zelensky's call for concrete security assurances comes amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics, with the Ukrainian President urging European nations to unite in creating a common army and foreign policy. He cautioned that the era of assured US support for Europe may be waning, prompting the need for a more self-reliant security framework.
While US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently stated that NATO membership for Ukraine is not a feasible outcome of negotiations with Russia, Zelensky proposed the establishment of a NATO-like security guarantee within Ukraine itself. He advocated for the deployment of a substantial European military force, envisioning a 'million-strong' army to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
European leaders are set to convene in Paris to deliberate on a coordinated response to recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, which have raised concerns about the diminishing focus on European security by the United States. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed readiness to deploy British troops to Ukraine if required to enforce a peace agreement.
Zelensky disclosed that French President Emmanuel Macron had assured him of providing further details on a potential European troop contingent once ongoing discussions conclude. The prospect of a European peacekeeping presence in Ukraine underscores the complex diplomatic efforts aimed at securing stability in the region amidst heightened tensions.
