Germany Rejects Sending Ground Troops to Ukraine, Urges France to Supply More Weapons
In a recent development regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Germany’s deputy chancellor, Robert Habeck, has firmly stated that there is “no chance” of sending ground troops to Ukraine. This statement comes as a direct response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion that a troop deployment to Ukraine should be considered. Habeck further advised France to supply more weapons to Kyiv instead.
The rejection of Macron’s proposal by Germany and other central European leaders highlights the differing approaches within the European Union when it comes to dealing with the crisis in Ukraine. While France seems open to the idea of sending troops, Germany maintains its long-standing policy that German soldiers will not be deployed to Ukraine.
Habeck emphasized that Berlin’s priority is to support Ukraine by providing it with the necessary munitions and tanks. He called on France to do the same and assist Ukraine in its military efforts. Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, echoed Habeck’s sentiments and dismissed the idea of sending troops to Ukraine.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala also made it clear that his country is not considering sending soldiers to Ukraine. Similarly, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that Warsaw does not plan to deploy troops but rather focus on supporting Ukraine in its military endeavors.
NATO, while affirming its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s right to self-defense, clarified that there are no plans for combat troops on the ground. A NATO official stated that the alliance will continue to provide support to Ukraine but did not specify the nature of this support.
However, a senior European defense official revealed that Macron’s suggestion was aimed at creating deterrence and ambiguity towards Russia. The official hinted at the presence of western special forces in Ukraine, although it has not been officially acknowledged.
French officials also mentioned the possibility of limited missions for western troops, such as demining, maintaining and repairing weapons systems, or securing the borders of countries threatened by Russia, including Moldova.
Macron’s proposal was made during a meeting of 25 European leaders in Paris, where he emphasized the need to prevent Russia from winning the war in Ukraine. While consensus for sending ground troops was not reached, Macron assured reporters that every necessary measure would be taken to ensure Russia’s defeat.
The Kremlin responded to Macron’s suggestion by stating that a conflict between Russia and NATO would be inevitable if troops were sent to fight in Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov, President Vladimir Putin’s spokesman, urged NATO countries to consider whether such a move would be in their best interests.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to escalate, the rejection of Macron’s proposal by Germany and other European leaders underscores the complexities surrounding the conflict. While the international community remains committed to supporting Ukraine, the debate over the deployment of ground troops highlights the divergent strategies and priorities among European nations.