Patrolling and “pacification”: what the military of allied countries will do in Ukraine
20 February 2025 21:31
British and other European troops could be deployed to Ukrainian cities, ports and nuclear power plants to help keep the peace after any ceasefire agreement with Russia. Western officials told the British television channel Sky News, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
In its article, the media outlet notes that protecting Ukraine’s skies and coastline will also be crucial.
Officials declined to disclose the exact number of potential forces, but said it would not exceed 30,000 troops.
The UK is also working to organize a summit on Ukraine with European allies. Its soldiers will not be deployed near the front line in the east and will not act as peacekeepers. Instead, they will be a “reassuring” force for the public and help facilitate the return of millions of Ukrainians who have fled the country because of the war with Russia.
Potential deployments could also include troops in major cities, ports, and critical national infrastructure such as nuclear power plants. Satellites, reconnaissance aircraft, and drones could also assist in these efforts.
The possibility of an air policing mission using fast jets based outside of Ukraine to help reopen Ukrainian airspace to civilian aircraft is worth noting, as civilian flights have been impossible since the outbreak of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine. The United Kingdom and other NATO countries are already performing such tasks in the Baltic States and Romania, patrolling the airspace to deter threats.
In addition, warships may be deployed in the Black Sea, including mine clearance operations, as well as patrols to support the restoration of maritime traffic off the Ukrainian coast. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the Royal Navy would be a good partner in helping to protect Ukraine’s sea lanes along with its northern allies.
In response, Russia has already stated that the deployment of any European or NATO forces in Ukraine is “unacceptable.”
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that his country would need security guarantees from NATO partners or would need funding and weapons to create its own million-strong army, backed by a “comprehensive air defense system.” He was referring to the U.S. Patriot system, saying that if Washington does not provide Kyiv with more such systems, they could be bought or licensed for production in Ukraine.
“Ukraine is in a situation where we don’t have many options to ensure security. It is unrealistic to create something completely new, something global. We need security guarantees this year because we want to end the war this year,” the Ukrainian president said.
