10-12 countries may join military contingent initiative for Ukraine – Presidential Office
Photo: Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa
The presence of a military contingent from other countries in Ukraine is essential for ensuring security. Currently, over 10 countries are known to be potentially involved in the formation of such a mission, stated Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa, according to Suspilne.
According to Palisa, discussions are ongoing with allies about the contingent and its formation. He explained that most of the discussions focus on aspects such as authority and the procedure for actions in different domains - land, sea, and air.
Ukraine, Palisa said, is interested in the most effective presence of partners in each of these areas.
He noted that regardless of whether it is France, the UK, or any other country, each unit deployed, even on conditionally friendly territory, must:
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Have air defense systems for protection from the air;
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Ensure reliable logistical deployment;
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Have electronic warfare capabilities;
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Coordinate interaction with the aviation component;
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In the case of a naval presence, ensure the protection and security of naval forces.
"This is a complex issue that requires careful planning, taking into account many factors. This is exactly what is being worked on now," Palisa emphasized.
According to Palisa, Ukraine is preparing for a meeting regarding the contingent of military forces from other countries. He noted that Ukraine expects the presence of 10-12 countries. Among them will be the UK, France, Baltic states, and Nordic countries.
"The meeting in question is the first of its kind. Another one, in a more technical format, is scheduled soon. I hope all issues will be discussed in more depth and detail there. We clearly understand that the synchronization of both the military and political components is needed to make such decisions," he said.
Palisa also explained why Ukraine is primarily negotiating with France and the UK.
"Because these countries have expressed their readiness to take leadership in this process," emphasized the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office.
He added that the most important factor right now is the political will and military capability to form a peacekeeping contingent.
Deployment of a military contingent in Ukraine
Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the preparation for a meeting of military representatives regarding the deployment of a military contingent in Ukraine. According to Zelenskyy, the meeting will take place in a "closed circle" in Kyiv.
Not long ago, the summit of the "coalition of the willing" was held in Paris. At that time, it was revealed that France and the UK had decided to send a special mission to Ukraine. This mission will focus on strengthening the Ukrainian military.
Later, French President Emmanuel Macron explained that a Franco-British team would be sent to Ukraine. However, it is still unknown who will be part of this team.
According to Zelenskyy, the meeting of military representatives from countries willing to deploy a military contingent in Ukraine after the end of the war with Russia will take place on Friday, April 4.
