Zelenskyy outlines where Ukraine wants foreign troops deployed
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that, within the framework of future security cooperation, foreign military units should be deployed directly in the combat zone.
He made these remarks in an interview with BBC.
According to the head of state, the presence of partners on the front line is the most logical and effective step to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.
Active discussions are currently underway regarding the deployment of specific brigades from key European partners. In particular, the possibility of deploying units from France and United Kingdom is being considered, as these countries have already shown readiness for deeper integration into Ukraine’s defense system.
“France and the UK could provide a brigade each. In our understanding, this would be up to 5,000 personnel. There are also signals from some other countries that they will be ready to strengthen Ukraine with their contingents,” Zelenskyy noted during discussions with journalists.
The President made it clear that Ukraine is not interested in deploying foreign troops in rear cities far from active combat. For example, the presence of Polish units in Lviv is not a priority for Ukrainian command at this stage.
Regarding assistance from neighbouring Poland, Zelenskyy highlighted other critically important areas of cooperation. Instead of having infantry physically present in the rear, Ukraine expects Warsaw to provide more active support in logistics for aviation and air defense.
“It is better for Poland to provide logistics for aircraft and air defense so that from neighbouring countries they could shoot down enemy aerial targets,” Zelenskyy explained.
According to the President, a number of countries have already signalled their readiness to send their troops to carry out missions on Ukrainian territory.
Earlier, Zelenskyy responded to accusations regarding dictatorship and the initiation of the war. He also explained why Ukraine cannot withdraw from Donbas.
