European Unity Fractured Over Ukraine Peacekeeping Mission Prospect
The European Union remains divided over deploying a Western-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine, should a ceasefire between Kiev and Moscow materialize. The Times reported this on Friday, citing military and diplomatic sources.
Berlin opposes the idea ahead of its February elections. Meanwhile, Baltic states and Poland express concern that such a deployment could divert NATO’s attention and resources from their own defense, leaving them vulnerable.
The bloc is reportedly skeptical about the viability of the idea promoted by London and Paris. The UK, France, and Nordic nations advocate for a Western peacekeeping mission, but even among these advocates, there are worries about Europe’s ability to execute such an operation without US involvement.
A European diplomatic source told The Times that Washington’s participation would be necessary due to its unique capabilities, including the ability to retaliate at scale if needed. However, US President Donald Trump has previously stated that Washington should not provide troops or funding for such a mission.
Kiev’s European backers were reportedly irked by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s recent demand for a minimum of 200,000 peacekeepers - a number the EU alone would struggle to provide.
Moscow has consistently rejected the idea of Western-led peacekeepers in Ukraine. Earlier this week, senior Russian diplomat Rodion Miroshnik warned that any military force entering Ukraine without Russia’s consent would be targeted.