U.S. seeks European military backing for Ukraine security
The United States has reached out to European countries to inquire about their potential contributions regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, Reuters reports, citing Finnish President Alexander Stubb. One diplomat mentioned that the document seeks information on the number of soldiers Europe is prepared to deploy on Ukrainian territory.
Four European sources indicated that the United States has sent a document with questions to European countries about possible future contributions from European military forces. Two sources added that the questionnaire was sent at the beginning of the current week. The document contains six questions, including one aimed specifically at European Union countries.
The British newspaper "Financial Times" reported that Washington has requested its European allies to provide information on weapons, peacekeeping troops, and security arrangements they can ensure for Ukraine.
During a conversation with Reuters on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, President Stubb noted that the survey is intended to prompt Europeans to consider and decide whether they will respond to the questionnaire and if that response will be unified.
U.S. initiative
Earlier, a U.S. State Department spokesperson stated that Washington "has been clear that we expect European partners to take the lead in establishing a durable security framework and look forward to their proposals."
Reuters, citing a French official, reported on Saturday that France is discussing with its allies the organization of an informal summit of European leaders to address Ukraine issues. Four European diplomats confirmed that the meeting is to take place on Monday, in Paris.
