Zelensky wants US troops to protect Ukraine’s future


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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s presence at Davos this week has been marked by dual objectives: rallying support while simultaneously attempting to align with President Donald Trump by conveying America First messaging to European leaders. However, according to Bloomberg, Zelensky expressed frustration at indications that American troops would not be deployed to Ukraine to counter Russian threats.

European capitals, particularly Paris, Warsaw, and London, have been engaged in discussions about post-ceasefire scenarios. Their primary concern centers on preventing Russia from using any potential pause as an opportunity to regroup and launch renewed attacks. European leaders have discussed with Zelensky the possibility of deploying their forces to Ukraine as a preventive measure.

However, when speaking to Bloomberg on the sidelines of Davos, Zelensky emphasized that such NATO deployment would be ineffective without American participation. “It can’t be without the United States… Even if some European friends think it can be, no it can’t be. Nobody will risk without the United States.”

Zelensky also expressed optimism about China’s potential role in compelling Russia toward peace, citing Russia’s economic and military dependence on Beijing. While acknowledging that “President Trump is the strongest,” he suggested that Xi Jinping “can push Putin for peace, I’m sure.”

France’s President Emmanuel Macron has emerged as a key proponent of the multinational peacekeeping force concept, engaging in ongoing discussions with Zelensky. The Ukrainian leader has previously described this as “President Macron’s initiative regarding the presence of forces in Ukraine that could contribute to stabilizing the path to peace.”

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has endorsed Macron’s proposal, committing to full British participation in the peacekeeping mission.

A senior European official had previously noted in December: “if there were a NATO security guarantee, where would the impetus on the ground come from? It would be European so our army chiefs are already preparing plans for European leaders to consider in the future.” However, concerns have emerged about European military capacity.

Military experts suggest that deploying even 100,000 troops would significantly strain European land forces. Recent statements from retired British Army officials have highlighted concerns about the British military’s capacity to fulfill Starmer’s commitment, particularly given the Royal Navy’s reduced capabilities for Black Sea operations.

During a recent meeting with NATO donor nations in Germany, Zelensky emphasized his goal to “find as many instruments as possible to force Russia into peace.” He identified partner force deployment as “one of the best instruments,” urging attendees to “be more practical in making it possible.”