Germany is considering a potential role for its troops in a post-conflict Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock open to deploying Bundeswehr soldiers as peacekeepers if a ceasefire is reached between Ukraine and Russia.
Speaking at a NATO Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Baerbock emphasized that Germany would fully support any efforts that promote peace, including international peacekeeping forces to secure an armistice.
The prospect of foreign peacekeepers arises amid uncertainty about the future leadership in the United States, with some speculating that Donald Trump could push Ukraine and Russia toward negotiations. If Trump returns to office, he may leverage threats, such as halting military aid to Ukraine, to encourage talks. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin might use the situation to escalate military support for Kyiv.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has also suggested that European soldiers could play a role in securing a potential ceasefire. Countries like France and the Baltic States, which have previously shown interest in contributing troops, could be key players in this effort.
In contrast, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte downplayed Ukraine’s hopes for rapid NATO membership, clarifying that the focus is currently on providing military aid rather than advancing peace negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed urgency about securing NATO membership to safeguard Ukrainian territory, but Rutte believes Ukraine needs to gain a stronger military position before pursuing talks with Russia.
As global powers assess the future of Ukraine’s security, the idea of a peacekeeping force remains a key consideration in the event of a ceasefire, with Germany and its NATO allies playing crucial roles in shaping the post-war landscape.
