On the supposed European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine

There’s been a lot of talk about deploying “peacekeepers” in Ukraine. I put that in quotes for a reason — because every analysis, without exception, describes forces that would fight on Ukraine’s side. The only scenario ever considered is their response to Russia breaking a ceasefire.

Not a single analysis asks what happens if Ukraine violates the ceasefire (or peace). And yet, everyone assumes that Russia will gladly agree to these conditions in future negotiations.

But this raises another question — one Europe is carefully avoiding: If these forces are going to fight for Ukraine, is Europe really ready for open war with Russia? That’s the only question that makes sense.

Because if Germany, France, or the UK believe Putin will break a peace deal and plan to send troops in response, that means only one thing — war with Russia. And then what? Another wave of “concern,” a rushed withdrawal, and Ukraine left alone once again — only this time without soldiers or support.

And if Europe isn’t planning to fight Russia or doesn’t believe Putin will break an agreement, then maybe it’s time to stop flooding the conversation with talk of pseudo-peacekeepers. Maybe those resources would be better spent on real post-war recovery — rebuilding Ukraine, restoring democracy, and fully integrating it into the EU.

Because right now, Ukraine is still outside NATO (translation: NATO won’t fight for Ukraine), yet somehow, the discussion about deploying NATO troops into Ukraine never stops.

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About the author. Serhiy Huz, journalist

The editorial staff does not always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.