Peacekeepers in Ukraine must be ready to fight against Russia - NATO veteran

With careful planning and a readiness for decisive action, the deployment of European peacekeepers in Ukraine is entirely possible -- whether Russia likes it or not.

Stefanie Babst, former head of NATO's strategic planning staff, stated in an interview with Ukrinform, CE Report informs.

"Identifying the right mission statement for such an operation is the first important step. The second is to assign military capabilities and forces. But overall, I think it would be doable," Babst said.

Having worked in NATO's international structures for 22 years, Babst understands from experience that planning such a complex military operation is highly demanding. The force must be strong and capable enough to deter Russia from further attacks against Ukraine.

"And it must be ready, if need be, to fight against Russia," she added.

According to Babst, relying on NATO for such an initiative makes no sense at this point. Instead, the only viable path forward is through a "Coalition of the Willing."

The political analyst said she had no doubt that Russia would protest, threaten, and react aggressively to the deployment of NATO-member peacekeepers.

"But this shouldn't prevent us from proceeding along. After all, Ukraine will only be secure if a sufficiently robust Western deterrent signals to Moscow: Red light. You stop here," she said.

Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Babst has argued that the West must change the strategic dynamics on the battlefield.

Unfortunately, she noted, NATO allies lacked the courage to take decisive action, leading to three lost years and a failure to properly deter Russia.