Ukraine Calls for European Combat-Ready Troops, Not Peacekeepers

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By Staff Writer

Kyiv, Ukraine – March 27, 2025 – Ukraine has urged Europe to provide “serious” military assistance in the form of combat-ready troops rather than peacekeeping forces, a key advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Wednesday.

Speaking to AFP, Igor Zhovkva, one of Ukraine’s top negotiators, emphasized that a symbolic European military presence was not enough. “We do not need a mere presence to demonstrate that Europe is here,” Zhovkva declared. “What matters is not just the number of troops but their readiness to fight, to defend, to be properly equipped, and to recognize that Ukraine is an integral part of Europe’s security. We do not need peacekeeping missions.”

Zhovkva’s remarks highlight Kyiv’s demand for tangible military support as Ukraine continues its struggle against Russian forces. He stressed that all troops deployed should be prepared for real combat, citing Ukraine’s prolonged engagement in active warfare. “For over three years, Ukrainians have been fighting. If they are soldiers, they must be ready to engage in real combat,” he added.

His statements come ahead of a crucial summit in Paris on Thursday, where representatives from over 20 European Union and NATO-affiliated nations will meet to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. The summit is also expected to address a potential future peace agreement with Russia, an initiative in which U.S. President Donald Trump has been actively involved.

As the war drags on, Ukraine’s leadership is signaling that European support must extend beyond diplomatic gestures and military aid packages. Kyiv insists that a lasting resolution to the conflict will require Europe to step up its military engagement, ensuring Ukraine’s defense and broader regional stability.