Zelenskyy explains role US could play in deployment of contingent to Ukraine
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The United States may play a certain role in deploying a European military contingent to Ukraine. Washington is expected to become a "pillar" of such an initiative, states Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in response to a question from an RBC-Ukraine correspondent.
According to the head of state, Ukraine and Europe have a vision of what the deployment of a military contingent should look like. However, there are differing opinions regarding the number of personnel and their presence. Ukraine plans to discuss this matter with Europe.
"We will discuss these differences. It depends on the willingness, the vision of each country, and the funding," Zelenskyy added.
He also noted that there is an "alliance" between Europe and the United States regarding security guarantees, and the deployment of a contingent could be part of it.
"We do not yet know the role of the United States and what it might be, but there are options for this role. Everyone would like it to be a 'backstop of America,'" the head of state clarified.
Deployment of a contingent to Ukraine
The US wants European countries to provide security guarantees for Ukraine. This includes the possible deployment of European soldiers to Ukrainian territory.
US officials have repeatedly stated that they will not send their own troops to Ukraine. However, Europe expects that the US will still provide support for such an operation.
Notably, the United Kingdom is insisting on US support.
