Amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine, discussions surrounding potential resolutions to the conflict have intensified, highlighted by recent comments from General Keith Kellogg, a senior envoy from the Trump administration. In an interview with the Times, Kellogg suggested that Ukraine might be partitioned similarly to Berlin after the Second World War, proposing a division into zones of control. Such a division would entail British and French troops providing a “reassurance force” in the western part of the country while Russian forces would remain in the east. Between these zones, a demilitarised area could be established with Ukrainian forces acting as the buffer. Notably, Kellogg maintained that the United States would not contribute ground forces to this initiative.
These remarks may be met with concern in Ukraine, given that the nation currently exercises governance contrary to the situation faced by Nazi Germany during the war. Notably, Russia has already dismissed an American-backed proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and has been slow to implement a more limited truce agreed upon last month, particularly in the Black Sea region.
As discussions unfold, Ukraine’s allies have responded robustly with a historic commitment of 21 billion euros (£18.2 billion) in military assistance, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's capacity to respond in this ongoing conflict. UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated that 2025 represents a “critical year” for the war, highlighting the necessity for allies to enhance military support for Ukrainian forces. The latest support package includes £450 million from the UK and Norway, earmarked for crucial equipment such as radar systems, anti-tank mines, and drones.
In a related effort to push for a truce, US envoy Steve Witkoff ventured to Russia, albeit reports from Brussels indicate a lack of confidence in achieving a cessation of hostilities. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, who chaired the recent meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG), remarked that continued Russian aggression suggests immediate peace remains unattainable.
President Donald Trump expressed frustration over Russia's reluctance to engage in talks, stating on social media that “Russia has to get moving,” emphasising the toll of the ongoing conflict with thousands of lives lost weekly. Following the UDCG meeting, Healey highlighted the importance of immediate military aid for Ukraine's war efforts and responded to queries regarding proposed European peacekeeping forces. He dismissed ambiguity about the mission's objectives, noting the current plans focus on a “coalition of the willing,” which operates independently of EU directives.
The UDCG convened for its 27th meeting, which marked the second chaired by Healey—a role historically held by US defence secretaries prior to Trump's term. Although US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth attended the meeting virtually, he was joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reinforcing ongoing collaboration amidst evolving dynamics in European security.
The discussions in Brussels and impending military aid illustrate the complexity and urgency surrounding the stability of Ukraine, as global attention remains focused on the region and the broader implications of international military engagements.
Source: Noah Wire Services