Potential Peace Framework for Ukraine
European leaders are contemplating the creation of a 40-kilometer buffer zone between Ukrainian and Russian troops as part of a potential peace agreement.
This information was reported by Politico, citing five European diplomats.
Details: According to Politico, the buffer zone is one of several proposals being discussed by military and civilian officials for post-war resolution or a ceasefire in Ukraine. However, there is no consensus among the countries regarding the depth of this zone, and it is unclear whether Kyiv would agree to it, given the potential territorial concessions involved. Reports indicate that the United States is currently not participating in these discussions.
The fact that officials are considering the possibility of delineating a portion of Ukrainian territory to secure a fragile peace indicates a level of desperation among NATO allies, analysts note.
“They are grasping at straws,” says former Pentagon official Jim Townsend.
“The Russians are not intimidated by Europeans. If they think a few British and French observers will stop them from invading Ukraine, they are mistaken,” he adds.
Details: “The delineation holds significant historical weight. European diplomats are not comparing it to the heavily guarded border between North and South Korea, which are technically still at war. They are more likening it to the division of Germany during the Cold War.”
Details: Regarding the number of troops to manage the buffer zone, officials are discussing figures ranging from 4,000 to 60,000 peacekeepers. Yet, no country has formally committed to this. U.S. President Donald Trump has already dismissed the possibility of deploying American troops.
Details: “NATO is already trying to prepare a rapid response force consisting of 300,000 troops to protect the eastern flank of the alliance from potential Russian aggression. According to two diplomats, any peacekeeping forces would have a dual role: patrolling near the demilitarized zone while simultaneously training Ukrainian forces.”
Details: Discussions are still ongoing regarding rules of engagement, potential escalation scenarios, and the role of third countries if the Kremlin opposes NATO's presence.
According to two European officials, French and British troops are likely to form the core of the foreign military contingent, and these countries are encouraging other allies to provide military support.
At the same time, Poland and Germany have opposed sending troops to Ukraine, fearing this would make them vulnerable to Russian attacks.
European countries are negotiating with Washington regarding satellite intelligence and air support. The U.S., possessing the most significant technical capabilities in this area, could play a crucial role in monitoring Russia's compliance with agreements.
Senior Pentagon officials have already informed their European counterparts that the U.S. will play a minimal role in any security guarantees for Ukraine, according to Politico.
“Everyone is waiting for U.S. Defense Department leaders to clarify how far they are willing to go and to allow Europeans to show their cards,” said one European official.
