European Union Ponders Troop Deployment to Support Ukraine's Peace Efforts

European allies deliberated on troop deployment to support Ukraine's peace deal, with French President Macron and UK PM Starmer leading the initiative. The plan aims to deter future Russian aggression. However, discrepancies over sanction lifting and ceasefire conditions pose challenges, amidst ongoing conflicts and diplomatic negotiations.

European allies showed division on potentially deploying troops to Ukraine to secure an eventual peace agreement, French President Emmanuel Macron revealed. Addressing summit conclusions, he stated that unanimity is not required for the initiative to progress.

France and the UK spearheaded discussions to form a "reassurance force" in collaboration with other willing nations, despite varying comfort levels among European countries over military involvement. As global leaders convened, recent violent incidents highlighted the ongoing conflict's severity, underscoring the urgency for a resolution.

The proposition challenges Europe's autonomy in defense capabilities, traditionally supported by US military resources. As interactions with Russia persist amid sanction debates, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized the continuous threat posed by Russia, reinforcing the need for European-led security measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)