**Zelensky and Macron Discuss Peacekeeping Troops in Ukraine**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the possibility of sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine during a meeting in Brussels on December 18. This is part of Zelensky’s talks with EU and NATO leaders at the European Summit.
The two leaders talked about Ukraine’s main priorities, including improving air defense, training more Ukrainian brigades, and finding ways to achieve peace. Zelensky said that reliable guarantees are needed for a lasting peace.
Macron has been pushing the idea of sending troops to Ukraine since February 2024. With U.S. President-elect Donald Trump set to return to the White House in January, European leaders are preparing to play a bigger role in supporting Ukraine’s defense needs.
**European Leaders Prepare to Support Ukraine**
The Wall Street Journal reported on December 12 that Trump wants European troops to monitor a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Macron spoke with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk about sending peacekeeping troops to Ukraine after a potential ceasefire deal.
Zelensky said on December 9 that Ukraine “may consider” the proposal, but only after securing a clear timeline for NATO membership. After their meeting on December 18, Zelensky said that Macron discussed his communications with other partners to implement steps towards peace.
**Ukraine and Russia in Conflict**
A fire broke out at a refinery in Ukraine on December 19 after a mass drone attack, Russian media reported. The Ukrainian military has been using drones effectively against Russia’s forces.
Zelensky said that the presence of peacekeeping troops could contribute to stabilization and help achieve peace. He also mentioned that Ukraine may consider the proposal but only after securing a clear timeline for NATO membership.
**European Union Support**
Two European Union accession clusters for Ukraine are expected to open in the first half of 2025 under Poland’s presidency of the EU Council, an EU official said on December 18.
The EU does not expect potential negotiations or a ceasefire deal between Ukraine and Russia in the near future, another high-ranking EU official told The Kyiv Independent.