Switzerland considers sending 200 troops to Ukraine peacekeeping mission

SWI reported that Commander of the Swiss Land Forces Thomas Süssli stated that Switzerland could provide around 200 soldiers for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine for a period of 9 to 20 months.

Süssli explained the difference between peace enforcement and peacekeeping operations. Peace enforcement involves the use of force, which Switzerland cannot participate in, the report emphasizes. In contrast, peacekeeping requires a ceasefire and the consent of both Russia and Ukraine for the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces. He stressed Switzerland's commitment to neutrality.

"If we receive the order to take part in a mission, we would draw up a training concept to train our soldiers and prepare them for deployment. Then we would start recruiting and train the members of the armed forces," Süssli continued, adding that the use of weapons would be allowed only for self-defense.

Switzerland has strong capabilities in logistics and medical services, the army chief noted. Various tasks are possible within the peacekeeping mission. Süssli drew parallels with the deployment of the Swiss army in Kosovo.

He also warned that Russia might be ready to further destabilize Europe in 2027 and escalate the conflict. This would be particularly critical for Switzerland, as its Patriot air defense systems and F-35 fighter jets are scheduled for delivery only after 2027, SWI noted.

Peacekeeping forces in Ukraine: What is known

At the end of January, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that at least 200,000 peacekeepers would be needed to secure Ukraine after the cessation of hostilities. The president later clarified that U.S. troops should be part of the peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.

On February 11, The New York Times reported that Europe lacks the 200,000 peacekeepers required for deployment in Ukraine, which is nearly three times the size of the entire British army. On the same day, Zelenskyy said the mission could operate with the deployment of 100,000 to 150,000 European troops.

According to the Associated Press, a group of European countries is confidentially developing a plan to send troops to Ukraine. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov previously confirmed that partners are already working on the peacekeeping mission idea.

On February 17, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that he was ready to deploy peacekeeping troops in Ukraine.

Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard announced that Sweden does not rule out sending troops to Ukraine as part of a post-war peacekeeping mission.

Western officials stated that European troops could be deployed in Ukrainian cities, ports, and nuclear power plants to help ensure peace following any ceasefire agreement with Russia.

• U.S. and Russian representatives hold secret unofficial talks in Switzerland regarding the war against Ukraine.