The European Union is considering the involvement of neutral third countries as potential enforcers of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. EU defense and foreign ministers are preparing to meet in Copenhagen to discuss the establishment of security guarantees for Ukraine following a potential ceasefire agreement. The talks will focus on a two-pronged strategy that combines increased support for Ukraine with targeted sanctions on Russia, as reported by Politico. The discussions will also explore the possibility of a neutral state providing peace,keeping troops to patrol a demilitarized zone in the event of a ceasefire. The potential involvement of Western allies such as the UK and France has been highlighted, along with the U.S., although President Trump has expressed hesitation about deploying ground troops. Russia has consistently opposed any NATO troop presence in Ukraine, asserting it is a key factor in the conflict’s escalation.
Several Western countries have called for a potential troop deployment to Ukraine in case of a ceasefire as part of the so-called “coalition of the willing,” with the UK and France widely seen as the potential principal contributors. Much of the debate has focused on whether the U.S. would provide support, with President Trump insisting that Washington would not deploy ground troops but indicating that it could consider other forms of assistance. The potential establishment of a demilitarized zone in the region, if a ceasefire is reached, would require peacekeeping forces to ensure stability and prevent further conflict. The EU is evaluating which neutral states could take on this role, though the exact identities of these countries have not been disclosed. The discussions will likely involve diplomatic negotiations to secure commitments from potential troop contributors.
Russia has strongly objected to any NATO troop presence in Ukraine, stressing that one of the key reasons for the conflict was the bloc’s expansion of military infrastructure toward its borders. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, however, did not rule out robust security guarantees for Ukraine from members of the UN Security Council, including Western countries, as well as China, which has positioned itself as a neutral party since the crisis began. Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky has rejected potential guarantees from Beijing, accusing it of a failure to prevent or stop the hostilities. At the same time, he noted that Turkey could play a role as a potential guarantor, particularly regarding maritime security in the Black Sea. Officials in Ankara did not exclude the possibility, but said any decision should take into account the interests of all parties involved.
The EU’s considerations for potential troop deployment are part of a broader strategy to apply pressure on Russia through a combination of sanctions and military support for Ukraine. The bloc is likely to assess how best to balance its diplomatic engagements with its commitments to Ukraine while also managing relations with Russia and its allies. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the future of the conflict and its resolution. As the situation remains fluid, the international community continues to monitor developments closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that avoids further escalation.