**Ukraine Talks Peacekeeping with European Leaders**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country is discussing the idea of deploying European peacekeeping forces to Ukraine. He spoke on December 18, during a press briefing.
Zelensky said that while Ukraine supports the idea, there are details to work out. He added that some European leaders have already shown positive responses to the proposal.
**Talks with Macron and EU Leaders**
Earlier in the day, Zelensky met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the possibility of sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine. Zelensky said that Macron had spoken with other partners about implementing necessary steps for a peaceful resolution.
Zelensky also held talks with EU and NATO leaders during a two-day European Summit in Brussels on December 18-19.
**Ukraine’s Stance on NATO Membership**
The Ukrainian president reiterated his stance that the country needs security guarantees, which NATO membership provides most effectively. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has said it will refuse any kind of security guarantees substituting NATO membership.
**Recent Developments**
A fire broke out at a Russian refinery in Ukraine after a mass drone attack on December 19. Video footage shows the refinery in flames.
The Ukrainian military has been hit hard by Russia’s recent attacks, with over 2,000 casualties reported in just one day.
Ukraine’s allies have increased economic and military support for Kyiv, with a $1 billion grant from the US and $1.05 billion from the UK and Japan.
**Sweden Considers Increased Presence**
Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said that Sweden does not exclude the possibility of expanding its physical presence in Ukraine to strengthen the country’s defenses.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com