The head of the EU’s foreign policy service, Josep Borrell, expressed his views on the establishment of an international mission in Ukraine, emphasizing that the format of this initiative is still under discussion. He noted that possible mission options may include monitoring, deterrence, or peacekeeping.
This is reported by Kyiv24
“The discussion revolves around whether this is a monitoring mission, a deterrence mission, or a peacekeeping mission, or a strengthening mission, or a protection mission; there are various options. And, of course, different countries perceive this issue differently,” he stated.
Borrell also highlighted the Franco-British contingent and the EU training mission aimed at preparing Ukrainian military personnel. He emphasized the importance of determining what capabilities the EU training mission will have, particularly whether it should expand its mandate.
“This is one of the topics we are going to discuss today. I mean, putting forward what else the EU training mission can do. So far, we have managed to maintain the mandate and we are updating the mission based on Ukrainian needs,” Borrell added.
The Swedish Minister of Defense also stressed the importance of clarity regarding the goals and nature of the mission. He believes that clarity about what this mission will entail is a key condition for its successful execution.
“I believe it would be helpful if there is clarity about what this mission will entail: peacekeeping, deterrence, or calming. I think the scope will depend on and be based on the objectives,” he noted.
On April 10, the first meeting of defense ministers from 30 countries in the format of a “coalition of the willing” will take place at NATO headquarters in Brussels, aimed at ensuring long-term peace in Ukraine. This initiative was launched in February by France and Britain.
On March 27, leaders from 27 countries gathered in Paris for a summit to discuss possible guarantees for Ukraine following a potential ceasefire, including the issue of deploying “coalition of the willing” forces on its territory.
French President Emmanuel Macron noted that the Western contingents proposed by the “coalition of the willing,” led by France and Britain, will not be stationed on the front line but will operate in peaceful zones as security support forces.