EU discusses possibility of strikes on Russia in case of ceasefire violation - AP
Illustrative photo: members of the French Armed Forces (Getty Images)
The military and high-ranking officials of France and the United Kingdom are discussing the deployment of a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine. In particular, such forces may be allowed to strike at Russian troops and Russian territory in case of violation of the ceasefire, Associated Press reports.
On March 11, a meeting was held in Paris, attended by army commanders from 34 countries and other military representatives, as well as senior officials from Europe and around the world.
During the talks, the military and officials discussed the contours of an international security force for Ukraine. This idea is being promoted by France and the United Kingdom to deter any future Russian aggression against Ukraine if Moscow and Kyiv agree to cease hostilities.
According to Western and Ukrainian officials, there is no final plan for military action yet. However, AP spoke to Western and Ukrainian officials in Kyiv, as well as French officials in Paris and British officials in London. On the condition of anonymity, they briefly described the details of the new outline of the containment plan.
Preliminarily, the military and officials are discussing the following options for the forces and powers of peacekeeping troops on the territory of Ukraine:
- If the war is terminated, the European Union may deploy peacekeeping troops on the territory of Ukraine. They may be allowed to strike at Russian troops if they violate the ceasefire
- Troops could be deployed to strategic sites, including nuclear power plants. Western air and naval forces could provide support
- Direct and immediate strikes on Russian targets are considered, which would be a response to Russia's attempt to resume hostilities
- The formation of a contingent capable of deterring Russia from a new offensive is being discussed. The forces could receive heavy equipment and weapons stocks that could be deployed within hours or days to help defend Ukraine
- Control over the front line would be remote, using drones and other technologies.
EU peacekeeping mission in Ukraine
At the end of February, Western media reported that European countries could send a contingent of 30,000 troops to Ukraine. These forces will be deployed to protect critical infrastructure in the rear and will act as peacekeepers.
At the same time, experts believe that more troops are needed to effectively force Russia to peace.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said that European countries should take the organizational and leadership role in sending peacekeepers to Ukraine. He emphasized that the US military would not participate in such a potential peacekeeping mission.
