In the future, to prevent a new Russian invasion, Ukraine will require at least 200,000 European peacekeepers.
This was reported by the agency Reuters, citing a statement from President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The European peacekeeping mission in Ukraine: public position of the countriesEurope is discussing the potential deployment of a peacekeeping mission to Ukraine. The infographic shows the positions of various countries.While speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the Ukrainian leader emphasized that reliable guarantees are necessary for the security of Ukraine and Europe following a potential ceasefire, with the deployment of a significant peacekeeping contingent playing a crucial role.
The president also noted that such a force would be part of the security guarantees needed for Ukraine.
“Of all Europeans? 200,000 is the minimum. It’s the minimum, otherwise nothing”, said Zelensky.
According to him, this number roughly corresponds to the size of the entire French army, which, as estimated by Paris in 2020, consisted of just over 200,000 personnel.
Zelensky stated that, at the very least, this number of troops will be necessary as a security guarantee, considering that the aggressor country has a military strength of 1.5 million, while Ukraine has only half that number.
As is known, the day before, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared London's readiness to participate in potential peacekeeping efforts in Ukraine if necessary. However, he noted that there are currently no conditions to implement such steps.
Recall that Zelensky discussed which countries Ukraine is negotiating with regarding the deployment of peacekeepers.
Previously, Zelensky referred to the placement of peacekeepers as one of the best tools to compel Russia to peace. At the same time, according to media reports, European diplomats and officials are skeptical about the chances of reaching an agreement on a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine if the United States is not involved.
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