To prevent a new Russian attack on Ukraine following any ceasefire agreement, at least 200,000 European peacekeepers will be required.
This statement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the World Economic Forum in Davos, in response to a question about the idea of having a peacekeeping contingent in the country, as reported by Reuters.
"From all Europeans? 200,000, that's the minimum. It's the minimum; otherwise, it's nothing," emphasized the head of state.
It is noted that this number is roughly equivalent to the total strength of the French armed forces. Zelensky stated that at least this amount would be necessary as a security guarantee if the Russian armed forces numbered 1.5 million troops, while Ukraine had only half that number.
Furthermore, the president pointed out that such forces would merely be part of the security guarantees that Ukraine requires.
Peacekeepers in Ukraine
London is prepared to deploy peacekeepers in Ukraine if necessary, stated British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. According to him, "Britain will play a 'full role' in any peace negotiations – including by deploying British troops to maintain peace."
The deployment of peacekeepers in Ukraine was also acknowledged by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. However, he noted that this should be discussed "when the time comes."
Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez states that his country "does not see it feasible" to deploy its troops on Ukrainian soil.