France proposes to deploy peacekeeping forces in the central part of Ukraine, along the Dnipro River. About this informs The Associated Press.
France proposes to place the forces of the “Coalition of the Willing” peacekeeping mission in the central part of Ukraine, along the Dnipro River, at a safe distance from the front line. In addition, alternative options for placing such forces even further from hostilities are being considered, for example, in the west of Ukraine or even on the territory of neighboring countries.
French President Emmanuel Macron noted that in the event of a new large-scale offensive by Russia, the proposed peacekeeping forces will be able to fight back if the Kremlin dares to re-aggress against Ukraine.
“If there was a general aggression against Ukrainian soil again, those armies would actually be under attack, and then that’s our normal framework of engagement. Our soldiers, when they’re engaged and deployed, have to react and respond to the decision of the commander-in-chief and, if they’re in a conflict situation, respond to it.” – explained Macron.
He clarified that these forces will not be deployed directly on the front line and will not participate in hostilities from the first days. Their task is to deter potential new aggression from Russia.
“And holding important cities, strategic bases, will mark clear support from several European governments and allies. So we are not on the front line, we are not going to war, but we are there to guarantee lasting peace. This is a pacifist approach. The only ones who could at this moment provoke a conflict, a belligerent situation, would be the Russians, if they decide to start aggression again.”, – emphasized the French president.
