Zelenskyy on truce monitoring: Let's get there first, but NATO is the best mechanism
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
To monitor a Ukraine-Russia ceasefire, the ceasefire itself must first be achieved. However, NATO remains the best mechanism for oversight, Zelenskyy said at a press conference with Czech President Petr Pavel.
"Let's get to that point first, because you are saying that monitoring the end of the war is needed, while we are saying that the first step is necessary. And, essentially, that's why the teams will meet — to monitor the ceasefire. Because Russia constantly violates it, and this is even before any agreement on ending the war. Unfortunately, this is the process," Zelenskyy explained.
He noted that the parties must first agree on a ceasefire. According to Zelenskyy, it is crucial to determine who will be responsible for monitoring it.
"We have spoken with various partners — Britain, France, and the United States. With those countries with whom we are currently working through intelligence channels. This is no secret. So we will discuss with them the modalities of this monitoring," he added.
At the same time, the President of Ukraine noted that determining how to monitor the end of the war with Russia is a complex issue.
"That is why I have always advocated that the cheapest way to ensure monitoring and security guarantees for everyone — and probably the most effective — is NATO. Everything is already developed there: how it works, who oversees it, what the modalities are, and how forces are deployed in case of aggression. I believe this is the clearest format," he said.
He also pointed out that if such a format is not in place, any other option will be more expensive and complicated.
During a press conference, Zelenskyy explained whether UN peacekeepers could be an alternative to a military contingent.
RBC-Ukraine previously reported that The Telegraph had stated that French President Emmanuel Macron believes a UN mission could serve as an alternative to sending European troops to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the president also addressed whether a truce agreement could be signed in Saudi Arabia.
