A top advisor to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, Igor Zhovkva, stated that Ukraine requires combat-ready soldiers from European countries, not peacekeepers.
Zhovkva’s appeal, made to AFP on Wednesday, comes before a Paris summit of the “coalition of the willing,” which comprises nations prepared to offer security assurances to Ukraine.
He told AFP that Ukraine needs “serious, trained troops… who are ready to fight.”
The official clarified that Kyiv isn’t seeking European forces to directly engage Russian troops but to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
He stated that they are not seeking soldiers who will fight with Russia, but those “who will defend, who will deter.”
The “coalition of the willing,” led by France and the UK, has discussed potentially deploying a 30,000-strong “reassurance” force to protect key cities, ports, and infrastructure, as well as conduct air-policing missions.
Moscow has previously warned that the presence of NATO military personnel in Ukraine, even for peacekeeping purposes, would be considered direct involvement in the war against Russia. They have also accused France and the UK of escalating tensions in Ukraine to hinder US and Russian efforts to resolve the conflict.
The composition and purpose of such a force are still under discussion. Some EU leaders support a strong military presence capable of combat if necessary, while others are hesitant about escalating the conflict. Germany and Poland, for example, have expressed reluctance, emphasizing defensive support without direct combat involvement.
The US position adds complexity. President Trump’s administration has declined to commit American troops, focusing on diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire. This has prompted some EU nations to consider a larger role in Ukraine’s security, with French President Emmanuel Macron saying Europe must increase its commitments.
On Wednesday, Zelensky arrived in Paris for a meeting with Macron before the summit. They are expected to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine and the potential deployment of European forces. According to Le Monde, Macron will reaffirm France’s commitment to increasing military and financial aid for Kiev.
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