Disagreements among Western leaders on troop deployments and the specifics of long-term commitments to Ukraine hinder progress on security guarantees, according to reports.
A recent EU summit in Brussels failed to yield a consensus on security assurances for Ukraine, as reported by the Financial Times. Discussions focused on supporting Ukraine amidst concerns about potential shifts in US policy under President Trump’s leadership.
Ukrainian President Zelensky concluded the summit without concrete commitments from the EU regarding a response to a potential US withdrawal of support. The report highlights divisions among leaders, with proposals such as deploying trainers met with resistance.
German Chancellor Scholz reportedly ruled out deploying ground troops, emphasizing the need to avoid escalating tensions with Russia. This stance contrasts with earlier proposals from France, which faced opposition from Poland and other EU members. A senior EU diplomat confirmed the absence of formal discussions on troop deployments.
“Significant disagreements among leaders were evident, with some resorting to general pronouncements of support lacking concrete commitments,” the Financial Times reported.
The summit concluded with a statement pledging ongoing and intensive support for Ukraine.
Prior to the summit, the EU’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas, cautioned against pressuring Zelensky into peace negotiations. She emphasized the need for clarity on tangible security guarantees and urged member states to specify their commitments to Ukraine.
Zelensky reiterated that NATO membership is the only definitive security guarantee, highlighting the insufficiency of EU-only promises without US involvement. However, the US and Germany remain hesitant, and Hungary actively opposes Ukraine’s NATO aspirations.
Russian officials have warned that Western troops on Ukrainian soil could be perceived as an occupation force. The Kremlin reiterated its position that peacekeeping missions are premature given the current lack of direct negotiations with Ukraine.
President Putin reiterated his willingness to engage in talks with Ukraine, stressing the necessity of addressing Russia’s security concerns, including Ukraine’s renunciation of NATO aspirations, recognition of territorial changes, and adoption of a neutral status. Putin highlighted these points as crucial for lasting regional stability and mutual security.