Amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukrainian officials are considering deploying 40 to 50 foreign troops along the 1000-kilometer front line. According to the Financial Times, such a force could be formed as part of an ad hoc coalition including Britain, France, the Netherlands, the Baltics and northern European countries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that at least 200 soldiers are needed to effectively contain Russia, but acknowledged that a more realistic figure is 40 to 50 foreign troops. Experts say that this number of soldiers may be enough to "not become an easy target" and not require immediate support.
The idea of deploying European troops to Ukraine was originally proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron and has become relevant again due to Ukraine’s military difficulties and the declining chances of its joining NATO. With the re-election of Donald Trump as US President, discussions about the possible deployment of European troops to Ukraine have resumed. Trump is seeking a ceasefire and Kyiv has expressed its willingness to agree to an agreement, provided that reliable security guarantees are provided.
Discussions among European allies include the possible involvement of British, French and Dutch troops, although countries such as Poland and Germany have expressed caution. Potential deployments would focus on support and peacekeeping roles rather than direct involvement in combat.
Historical precedents, such as the presence of American troops in South Korea and KFOR in Kosovo, serve as models for such a deployment. However, the success of such a mission depends on reaching a final peace agreement with Russia.