**Ukraine‘s Allies to Discuss Potential Peacekeeping Mission Amid Ongoing Conflict**
In the midst of ongoing conflict with Russia, Ukraine’s key allies are set to meet on April 10 to discuss a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. The meeting, led by French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu and U.K. Defense Minister John Healey, will take place at NATO headquarters in Brussels.
This gathering brings together European countries, Canada, and Australia, but notably excludes the United States. Ukrainian, French, and British military officials have been in talks to define Ukraine’s needs for such a mission, with Ukraine seeking peacekeepers to deter future Russian aggression.
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of foreign troops’ presence across land, air, and sea to ensure peace. He noted that the troops’ mandate and infrastructure are crucial aspects to consider, and he expects clarity on the timing of the peacekeeping mission within the next month.
**Multiple Countries Eyeing Peacekeeping Mission**
Pavlo Palisa, Ukraine’s chief defense adviser, revealed that about a dozen countries could be willing to join the coalition and send troops to Ukraine. This includes potential participation from Baltic and Nordic countries. However, many countries, including the U.K., are hesitant to deploy troops without U.S. support.
Russia has warned that any troop deployment without a United Nations mandate would be unacceptable. Despite these challenges, Ukraine continues to push for the peacekeeping mission, despite the difficulties in finalizing the details.
**NATO and Ukraine Defense Contact Group to Meet**
The proposed mission comes as Ukraine seeks to enhance its defense capabilities, especially with NATO membership blocked. The presence of allied troops would provide a security guarantee for Ukraine, deterring future Russian attacks. As Palisa explained, any peacekeeping force would require comprehensive planning, including air defense systems, electronic warfare, and protection for naval forces.
NATO will also host the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on April 11 to continue discussions on military aid. Ukrainian, French, and British military officials have been discussing Ukraine’s requirements for a potential peacekeeping mission, with Ukraine aiming to secure peacekeepers to prevent future Russian aggression.
**Ukraine Pushes for Peacekeeping Mission Amid Challenges**
President Zelensky highlighted the significance of having clear time limits for a ceasefire, emphasizing that an unclear period would lead to a “frozen conflict.” He expressed gratitude for his country’s allies and their support for Ukraine’s economy and rapid recovery. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that more than 75 countries have approached the U.S. to discuss trade, trade barriers, and tariffs without retaliating against Washington.
The Kyiv Independent reported on April 9 that Ukraine is ready to contribute its land and resources but expects the U.S. to bring in technologies and capital. Shmyhal expressed his country’s commitment to a free market economy and the abolition of duties, not escalation.
**Ongoing Conflict and Military Developments**
Combat data analyzed by CNN confirms a surge in Russian activity across the front line over the past two weeks. Ukrainian author Yuri Andrukhovych spoke about the dangers faced by pro-Ukrainian artists during Soviet times. Ukraine’s military has reported successful operations, including destroying a Tu-22M3 bomber plane and more than 20 Shahed-type drones.
U.S. military assistance to Kyiv has decreased, with European countries providing the main portion of aid. The appeal for peacekeeping comes amid growing expectations that the Trump administration will proceed with plans to scale back American troop deployments in Eastern Europe.
