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Türkiye urges caution against "premature" plans of deploying a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine as part of U.S.-led negotiations to bring an end to the war, sources revealed on Wednesday to Türkiye Today.
Turkish officials state that if a plan to involve European forces for a peacekeeping force for Ukraine comes onto the agenda, such a mission should include countries that have remained neutral during the course of the Ukraine-Russia war.
"If a ceasefire is reached in the future and a peace mission is established, it should consist primarily of neutral countries. We believe it's premature to make such assessments. It will be evaluated when the time comes," a defense ministry source told Türkiye Today.
Sources noted that the plan looks "unrealistic" given the dynamics of the war and the proposed participants in the peacekeeping mission.
While the Finnish newspaper Iltalehti reported on Monday that as part of a "Coalition of the Willing," nations would deploy forces if a ceasefire is achieved, Turkish defense ministry sources expressed reservations about the timing and feasibility of such a mission.
European involvement in such a "peace mission" might not be possible since Russia views Europe as a party to the conflict, which could complicate any European-led peacekeeping efforts, per experts who are familiar with the topic.
According to Iltalehti, European nations are prepared to deploy 50,000 ground troops to Ukraine if a ceasefire agreement is reached, citing foreign and security policy sources.
The proposed force would operate under a "Coalition of the Willing" led by the United Kingdom and France.
An operational plan has reportedly been drawn up for the deployment, which would be commanded by a Western general as part of security guarantees for Kyiv.
The force would be supported by allied air and naval units to ensure the protection of Ukrainian airspace.
The 50,000-strong Western military presence would serve as a deterrent, effectively preventing Russia from continuing its invasion, according to the Finnish daily.
Turkish Defense Ministry sources previously addressed questions about potential troop deployment in March, when initial reports surfaced about a possible peacekeeping mission that includes Turkish troops.
"Our stance remains unchanged: a just and lasting peace can only be achieved through an equitable and fair representation of both parties."
"Türkiye will continue to support all constructive efforts to restore peace in the region, ensure the Black Sea remains a sea of peace, and contribute to Ukraine's reconstruction," the sources had said in March.
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