New Delhi, Feb 28: NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has emphasised that the military alliance has no intentions of deploying combat troops in Ukraine, as discussions circulate regarding potential Western intervention in the conflict-stricken nation.
Stoltenberg underlined NATO’s unwavering support for Ukraine, highlighting the extensive assistance provided since 2014 and intensified efforts following the full-scale invasion. However, he clarified that there are no plans for NATO combat troops to engage on Ukrainian soil.
This declaration comes amidst reports suggesting the consideration of bilateral agreements by certain countries to dispatch troops to Ukraine to bolster its defence against Russian aggression.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Monday that “nothing should be excluded” regarding the potential deployment of Western troops to Ukraine in solidarity with the nation’s struggle against Russia.
Speaking following a gathering of European leaders in Paris aimed at reinforcing support for Ukraine, Macron emphasized that the discussions did not yield a unanimous decision to officially endorse the deployment of troops.
However, he emphasized the openness to consider any measure deemed beneficial to achieve the ultimate objective, which he defined as preventing Russia from prevailing in the conflict.
Macron’s remarks triggered responses from other European and NATO member states. US President Joe Biden reiterated the significance of providing military aid to Ukraine to bolster its defence capabilities, affirming the US’s commitment to support without direct troop deployment.
Similarly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak echoed the stance against large-scale military deployment to Ukraine, reiterating existing support mechanisms.
The Kremlin, through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, warned of dire consequences should NATO troops be deployed in Ukraine, emphasizing the potential for direct conflict.
Navigating the delicate geopolitical landscape, NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg maintained the alliance’s support for Ukraine while emphasizing that it is not a NATO member.
Efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defence continue, with US President Biden urging congressional approval of a substantial aid package, including significant assistance earmarked for Ukraine.
However, the package faces challenges in the US House of Representatives, with Republican leaders prioritizing border reforms.
Despite the hurdles, support for Ukraine remains robust, with the US leading in military aid contributions, closely followed by Germany and the UK. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for the collective defence against Russian aggression, emphasizing the long-term security implications of unified action.