Zelensky Seeks Clear Security Guarantees from Allies

Conflict in Ukraine Nears Fourth Anniversary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that European allies have not provided clear guarantees regarding the protection of his country in the event of new aggression from Russia. "I ask this question to all our partners, and I have not yet received a clear and unequivocal answer," he told reporters on Wednesday.

His remarks come a day after the United Kingdom and France signed a declaration of intent regarding the deployment of troops to Ukraine, should a peace plan with Russia be reached. However, comprehensive security guarantees have not been established.

The United States, which has led efforts to end the invasion, did not sign such a promise during discussions in Paris on Tuesday. Following the negotiations, which included approximately 30 countries from the so-called Coalition of the Willing, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the UK and France would "establish military hubs across Ukraine" to deter future invasions, while French President Emmanuel Macron mentioned that thousands of troops could be deployed.

Allies have proposed that the United States take the lead in monitoring a ceasefire. However, the key issue of territorial concessions that Ukraine is being asked to make to Russia within the proposed peace terms is still under discussion. The Kremlin has yet to comment on the announcements made in the French capital.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Moscow currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory. Zelensky stated that a peace agreement is "90% ready" when discussing recent negotiations.

On the other hand, Zelensky has expressed less optimism in recent statements, emphasizing the importance of securing "legal guarantees supported by parliaments and the U.S. Congress." He mentioned that, even in the absence of such guarantees, Ukraine must primarily rely on its own forces.

Russia's attacks on Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure continue daily, with an escalation observed in recent weeks. Additionally, Moscow has made slow progress in capturing new Ukrainian territories, while Ukraine has retaliated with drone strikes on Russian targets, albeit with limited success.