NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has made it clear that the military alliance has no intentions of deploying combat troops into Ukraine. This statement comes amidst reports suggesting that certain Western nations might be contemplating sending ground forces to the conflict-ridden country.
Stoltenberg emphasized that NATO allies have been providing unprecedented support to Ukraine since 2014, which was further intensified after the full-scale invasion. However, there are no plans for NATO combat troops to be stationed on Ukrainian soil.
Ahead of a trip to Paris on Monday, where top officials from over 20 countries discussed options to increase help for Ukraine, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico said that some countries are weighing whether to strike bilateral deals to send troops to Ukraine to help it fend off the Russian invasion.
Prime Minister Robert Fico clarified that the Slovak government does not intend to propose sending Slovak soldiers to Ukraine. However, he refrained from disclosing specific details regarding which countries might be contemplating such bilateral agreements or the precise roles these troops would undertake within Ukraine.
Slovak Parliament Speaker Peter Pellegrini has unequivocally stated that Slovakia will not be sending troops to Ukraine.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala declined to comment before leaving for Paris, saying the leaders were meeting to discuss possible options, but he underlined that “the Czech Republic certainly doesn’t want to send its soldiers to Ukraine”.
French President Emmanuel Macron asserted on Monday that the possibility of deploying Western troops on the ground in Ukraine should not be dismissed for the future. This statement comes as Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine enters its third year. During a gathering of over 20 European heads of state and government, Macron emphasized that “we will do everything needed so Russia cannot win the war”.
While there is currently no consensus to officially send troops to Ukraine, Macron acknowledged that, in terms of dynamics, nothing can be ruled out. He maintained a strategic ambiguity regarding which nations might consider sending troops. The discussion surrounding this critical issue reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for unwavering support to counter Russian aggression in Europe.
As the conflict continues, leaders grapple with the complexities of collective security and the potential impact on neighboring countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also urged the assembled leaders to prevent further aggression and protect their hard-won achievements.
While ruling out NATO military action, Stoltenberg told AP “that this is a war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine, blatantly violating international law. According to international law, Ukraine of course has the right to self-defence, and we have the right to support them in upholding that right”.
As an alliance, NATO indeed extends non-lethal aid and support to Ukraine, including medical supplies, uniforms, and winter equipment. However, certain member countries independently provide weapons and ammunition either bilaterally or in groups.
Any decision to deploy troops would necessitate unanimous support from all NATO member nations. The ongoing discussions underscore the gravity of the situation and the collective commitment to counter Russian aggression in Europe.
While NATO currently focuses on immediate non-lethal military assistance, the possibility of further support remains a critical consideration. Ukraine’s right to self-defense is recognized under international law, and NATO stands ready to uphold that right.
The situation continues to evolve, and the international community closely monitors developments in the region.
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