European Diplomatic Circles Discuss the Proposal of a 40-Kilometer Buffer Zone on Ukrainian Territory: Opportunities and Challenges
In recent days, European diplomatic circles have been actively engaged in discussions concerning the potential formation of a so-called buffer zone stretching approximately 40 kilometers between Ukraine and Russia.
This initiative has emerged amid efforts to find a viable solution to maintain peace and stability in the region following longstanding and recent conflicts.
According to sources, including Politico, several European diplomats reveal that this zone is one of several proposals being considered by military and civilian leaders in the context of possible settlement or final ceasefire in Ukraine.
However, it is important to note that opinions differ regarding the depth of such a zone, and it remains uncertain whether Kyiv would agree to its implementation, given the potential territorial concessions involved.
Some diplomatic sources indicate that the United States is currently not involved in these discussions.
Nevertheless, the consideration of ‘blocking’ Ukrainian territory to ensure fragile peace underscores the despair among NATO allies, experts say.
Former Pentagon official Jim Townsend describes this as a ‘Hail Mary,’ emphasizing that Russia is not afraid of Europeans and that the presence of a few British and French observers will not prevent their invasion of Ukraine.
Historically, European diplomats compare the potential boundary to the division of Germany during the Cold War, rather than the heavily guarded border between North and South Korea, which remains technically at war.
Regarding military forces for monitoring the buffer zone, discussions range from 4,000 to 60,000 peacekeepers, although no country has officially committed troops yet.
U.S.
President Donald Trump has already dismissed the possibility of deploying American forces.
U.S.
policy remains firm: NATO is preparing a rapid response force of up to 300,000 troops to defend the eastern flank against a potential Russian attack.
Meanwhile, peacekeeping forces are expected to perform dual roles: patrolling the demilitarized zone and training Ukrainian soldiers.
Discussions also focus on rules of engagement, escalation scenarios, and the role of third countries if Moscow opposes NATO troop presence.
France and Britain are expected to form the core of the foreign contingent, urging other allies to contribute support.
Conversely, Poland and Germany oppose deploying troops to Ukraine, fearing their own vulnerability.
European countries are coordinating with Washington on satellite intelligence and air support, while the U.S., with its advanced capabilities, could play a crucial role in monitoring compliance with agreements.
U.S.
Pentagon officials have stated that America will play a minimal role in Ukraine security assurances, leaving the bulk of monitoring and enforcement to European allies, highlighting uncertainty in Washington about the scope of possible military commitments.