International Military Delegation Visits Ukraine

Today, April 4, a military delegation from the coalition arrives in Ukraine to provide support. This delegation consists of representatives from European countries willing to send their armed forces to assist Ukraine.

RBC-Ukraine examines the potential outcomes of this visit and other topics that will be discussed with European partners beyond military assistance.

While negotiations involve numerous countries, a select group, including representatives from France and the UK, is visiting Kyiv, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelensky on April 1.

Previously, French President Emmanuel Macron, the initiator of the contingent idea, indicated that the focus is on creating so-called "support forces" that could be deployed after a ceasefire is reached.

"These 'support forces' should not replace peacekeeping troops on the front lines or undermine the strength of the Ukrainian army," Macron emphasized on March 26. The mission is expected to involve a long-term presence in designated strategic locations in Ukraine upon agreement with Kyiv. The primary task of the contingent is to deter potential aggression from Russia.

According to Zelensky, discussions will encompass not only the presence of the contingent but also the future development of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and their role in ensuring European security. "It is crucial to define how the future of the Ukrainian army will align with the security of the entire continent," he remarked.

Macron also mentioned that the delegation will need to outline the future parameters of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

"What will be the structure of the army, the naval capabilities, the air force; what size, number of soldiers, and equipment will be necessary to effectively respond to potential Russian aggression?" Macron stated on March 27. This information is vital for European countries to plan their support and clarify contributions from each country in the coalition.

The definitive format of the mission remains uncertain.

The deployment of the contingent in Ukraine has been actively discussed at the diplomatic level for several months. A summit of state leaders took place on March 27 in Paris to address this issue.

However, as RBC-Ukraine reported, various mission formats are still being considered. The choice of one format or another largely depends on the ceasefire agreement with Russia, as achieving a ceasefire is an essential precondition for deploying the contingent.

Nevertheless, there are already several technical and logistical issues that can be addressed, noted analyst Igor Chalenko.

"There are questions about air cover, for example, from which European airfields European aircraft can take off. This needs to be calculated and planned accordingly," Chalenko commented.

Additionally, there may be discussions about the potential transfer of Ukrainian unit training from Europe to Ukraine with the involvement of European instructors. Finally, any such visits are accompanied by discussions on urgent assistance to Ukraine.

"This visit should be viewed in the context of President Zelensky's statements regarding the possibility of intensifying operations along three fronts: Kharkiv, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia," Chalenko added.

The ability of the US to compel Russia to cease fire and establish a lasting truce remains critical. Without this, talks about a European mission in Ukraine will remain just that—talks.

Previously, RBC-Ukraine explained what the "coalition of the resolute" entails, which countries are part of it, and in what formats it aids Ukraine.