Western officials have indicated that European troops, including British forces, may be deployed to Ukraine to help maintain peace following a potential ceasefire with Russia. This deployment could see soldiers stationed in major urban areas, ports, and critical infrastructure sites, such as nuclear power plants, as part of a broader strategy to enhance security in the region.
The proposed mission aims to reassure the Ukrainian public and facilitate the return of millions of displaced citizens who fled the conflict. While the exact number of troops has not been disclosed, officials suggest that the force would comprise fewer than 30,000 personnel. Importantly, these troops would not be positioned near frontline combat zones and would not serve as traditional peacekeepers.
In addition to ground forces, the security operation may involve aerial support, including fast jets based outside Ukraine, to assist in reopening the country’s airspace for civilian flights. No commercial flights have operated since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The UK and NATO allies already perform similar air policing missions in the Baltic states and Romania to deter any potential threats.
Naval deployments to the Black Sea are also under consideration, focusing on demining operations and maritime patrols to restore shipping routes along the Ukrainian coast. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed optimism about collaborating with the Royal Navy and Nordic allies to secure these vital shipping lanes.
However, any European-led mission is contingent upon what British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has termed a "US backstop." This would likely involve American military assets stationed outside Ukraine to deter further Russian aggression, although the specifics of this arrangement remain unclear. Former President Donald Trump has yet to clarify his stance on such operations, while his former defense secretary has ruled out the possibility of sending American troops to Ukraine.
The Russian government has condemned the idea of deploying NATO or European forces in Ukraine, labeling it "unacceptable." Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy has previously stated that an effective international security force would need to consist of around 110,000 personnel. Discussions among European allies have suggested a more modest contingent of 25,000 to 30,000 troops.
As Ukraine continues to seek security guarantees from its NATO partners, President Zelenskyy highlighted the urgent need for such assurances to end the ongoing conflict. He also mentioned the necessity of building a robust national defense, potentially including acquiring advanced air defense systems like the US Patriot missiles, either through procurement or licensing for domestic production. Zelenskyy emphasized the critical importance of securing guarantees this year to bring the war to a close.