In a document reviewed by Reuters, the United States has reached out to its European allies to inquire about their requirements for engaging in Ukraine security arrangements. The diplomatic communication, sent last week, outlines six points and questions. It seeks input on which countries could offer guarantees, deploy troops for peace efforts in Ukraine, and the potential size of a European-led force.
President Donald Trump stirred controversy among European allies this week by contacting Russian President Vladimir Putin and initiating peace talks without prior consultation with them or Kyiv. Despite previous reports indicating U.S. interest in contributions from European nations to security guarantees, the detailed text reveals the US is also seeking clarity on what support European countries would need from Washington to contribute effectively.
European governments, acknowledging their reliance on U.S. support for providing security guarantees, are likely to appreciate this aspect of the inquiry. The questionnaire specifically probes about the resources European countries would deem necessary for their participation. European diplomats are discussing possible collective responses to the inquiry.
An emergency Ukraine summit on Monday in Paris will convene some European leaders, including those from Britain and Germany. The document further queries about potential European and third-country participants for security arrangements in Ukraine and readiness to deploy troops for peace purposes.
In the scenario of third-country military involvement in Ukraine under a peace deal, inquiries are raised concerning the size, deployment logistics, and duration of a European-led force. Also, the document seeks insights into the response actions that the U.S., allies, and partners should be prepared to take in case of a Russian attack on these forces.
Questions also touch on the support that governments are willing to provide Ukraine to enhance its negotiation leverage and increase pressure on Russia. Lastly, inquiries target potential measures to intensify sanctions on Russia, including stricter enforcement of existing sanctions.