In Munich on February 15, as efforts to resolve the three-year conflict with Russia intensify, the United States has solicited input from European nations regarding security assurances for Ukraine, as reported by Finland's president.
American officials have distributed a questionnaire inquiring about potential troop deployments, prompting European leaders to consider their responses. Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president, mentioned to Reuters at the Munich Security Conference, "The Americans have provided Europeans with the questionnaire on what would be possible."
The U.S. State Department emphasized the expectation for European leadership in establishing a lasting security framework, stressing mutual benefits. A spokesperson highlighted, "A strong, self-reliant Europe is in both their interest and ours."
European sources noted that the document from Washington aimed to assess Europe's perspective on negotiation frameworks to resolve the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy advocated for a stronger European defense, highlighting concerns about reliance on U.S. protection.
Against the backdrop of recent discussions between the U.S. and Russia regarding negotiations to end the conflict, attention has turned to the necessity of security guarantees in Ukraine and Europe. Ukrainian and European focus has shifted to contemplating the potential role of Europe should U.S. support diminish.
European diplomats confirmed that the U.S. is inquiring with European capitals about possible troop deployments.