US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed the notion of deploying American troops to Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions in Europe. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has voiced concerns about Europe's vulnerability, emphasizing that without US security assistance, the continent remains in a precarious position. He contended that Ukraine has grown stronger over the past three years, asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not be able to occupy Ukraine as intended. However, he noted that a Ukrainian victory is unattainable without US aid.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that Poland does not intend to send troops to Ukraine, aligning with the US stance. Meanwhile, Keith Kellogg, Donald Trump’s envoy to Ukraine, denied any intentions from Washington to impose a peace deal on an elected leader of a sovereign nation, referring to Zelenskyy.
“I’ve been with President Trump, and the policy has always been: you take no options off the table.” – Keith Kellogg
Zelenskyy has sharpened his rhetoric following the US's decision to engage in one-on-one talks with Russia, excluding both Ukraine and Europe from these discussions. He criticized the US approach, suggesting it aims to "please" Putin and secure a "quick win." This sentiment is echoed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who cautioned against a hasty ceasefire, warning that it could allow Russia to regroup and pose further threats to Europe.
“The US is now saying things that are very favourable to Putin … because they want to please him. They want to meet quickly and have a quick win. But what they want – just a ceasefire – is not a win,” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Germany has signaled a different approach, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressing readiness to contribute troops to ensure Ukraine's security if necessary.
“We in Germany are prepared to contribute soldiers to a security guarantee for Ukraine if necessary.” – Olaf Scholz
Scholz also criticized the timing of the current discourse surrounding peace negotiations, stressing that discussions should not proceed without Ukraine's involvement.
“It is completely premature and completely the wrong time to have this discussion now… I want to say that quite frankly, people are talking over Ukraine’s head, about the outcome of peace talks that have not taken place and to which Ukraine has not said yes.” – Olaf Scholz
Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of US support for a definitive Ukrainian victory and warned against complacency in the face of Russian threats.
“I honestly think that Europe is weak today,” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
In discussions with former President Trump, Zelenskyy explored the possibility of deploying foreign troops to enforce a future ceasefire. Despite these discussions, he remains firm in his belief that US backing is crucial for Ukraine's success.
“there will definitely not be a Ukrainian victory without US support” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy