Von der Leyen on troop deployment in Ukraine: We have a clear road map, work is going very well

This was stated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in an interview with the Financial Times, as reported by Ukrinform.

“Security guarantees are paramount and absolutely crucial. We have a clear road map, and we had an agreement in the White House...and this work is going forward very well,” von der Leyen said.

According to her, European Union countries are developing plans for a multinational troop deployment with American backing. She added that “President Trump reassured us that there will be American presence as part of the backstop,” noting that this commitment was “very clear and repeatedly affirmed.”

Last week, military leaders from the Coalition of the Willing finalized “pretty precise plans,” including discussions on the necessary components for a functional troop buildup, the European Commission President stated.

At the same time, she emphasized that the final decision will rest with national governments: “[But] the sense of urgency is very high...it’s moving forward. It’s really taking shape.”

Over the past few months, von der Leyen said, several meetings have taken place where it became clear that Europe can be relied upon.

In her view, any Western troop deployment would complement a significantly strengthened Ukrainian army, which should serve as the core of deterrence. She added that the European Commission is considering new financial mechanisms to ensure sustainable funding for Ukraine’s Armed Forces as a form of security guarantee.

Von der Leyen stressed that once peace is achieved, Ukraine will require a substantial number of soldiers who must be paid well and equipped with modern weaponry, noting that the EU will have to contribute.

She also confirmed that existing EU support programs for Ukraine, including budgetary assistance, will remain in place during peacetime.

In addition, Brussels will continue funding the training of Ukrainian military personnel and is urging EU member states to use an EUR 150 billion fund to jointly produce weapons with Ukrainian companies or to procure arms for delivery to Kyiv.

The European Commission President also noted that the nature of warfare has completely changed, emphasizing the urgent need to invest in the production of drones, air and missile defense systems, and cybersecurity measures

Photo: Ukrinform (available for purchase)