
Europe divided on sending 100,000 peacekeepers to Ukraine
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European nations are grappling with significant challenges and disagreements over the possibility of deploying a 100,000-strong peacekeeping force to Ukraine following a potential ceasefire agreement.
Germany and several other European countries oppose sending a "peacekeeping" mission to Ukraine after the conflict is resolved, writes The Times.
Moreover, the Baltic states and Poland are concerned that the mission could take away funds and NATO resources allocated to them.… pic.twitter.com/zXBpyrQ9bv
— Sue (@SimplySusie3) February 1, 2025
According to reporting from *The Times*, European capitals remain divided on the implementation of such a mission. While there’s a shared desire to demonstrate resolve against Russia, consensus on the method remains elusive.
The United Kingdom, France, and Nordic countries have positioned themselves as advocates for European leadership in Ukraine peacekeeping efforts. Sources suggest Europe could independently field a force of 100,000 personnel without American troops, but they acknowledge critical shortcomings in advanced air capabilities.
The West plans to deploy 100,000 ‘peacekeepers’ to Ukraine, according to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service
Troops from several NATO countries will cover specific areas, which the intelligence service says will amount to a de-facto occupation pic.twitter.com/uao3ObPj9F
— RT (@RT_com) November 30, 2024
Success would still hinge on American support, particularly through Patriot air defense systems and likely U.S. Air Force involvement.
A significant challenge lies in the current war’s unique air combat situation. Neither side has achieved air superiority, resulting in traditional ground warfare tactics. European democracies would likely hesitate to deploy forces without guaranteed air protection.
European military readiness presents another obstacle. Despite possessing advanced technology, European forces lack sustained operational capability. Recent assessments indicate NATO’s military-industrial complex couldn’t sustain a Ukraine-style conflict, with ammunition reserves potentially depleting within days.
Opposition to the peacekeeping proposal comes from Germany, Poland, and Baltic states, who express concerns about leaving northeastern Europe vulnerable. These nations, particularly former Soviet states, perceive themselves as primary targets of potential Russian expansion.
However, there are inconsistencies in this reported alignment. Lithuanian Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Raimundas Vaiksnoras has indicated potential participation in a peacekeeping mission. Germany’s position remains unclear, with conflicting statements from leadership and an impending election adding uncertainty.
Europe’s inability to establish air superiority within its region has drawn criticism, notably from President Trump regarding European defense responsibilities. More concerning is the alternative scenario involving UN peacekeepers from India, Bangladesh, and China operating on European territory.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has endorsed the concept of NATO peacekeepers while implicitly acknowledging the possibility of a ceasefire. He said in January: “It can’t be without the United States… Even if some European friends think it can be, no it can’t be. Nobody will risk without the United States.”
Russia has responded negatively to the peacekeeping proposal, with their foreign ministry warning of potential uncontrolled escalation if Western nations proceed with such deterrent measures.