Discussions are underway among Western allies regarding a potential European-led peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, with NATO playing a significant supporting role. This involves leveraging NATO's command and control structures, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
The inclusion of NATO is seen as a way to indirectly involve the US and secure its tacit support, although US participation under a EU-led mission was previously rejected. The mission aims to reassure Ukraine of Europe's commitment to its security and deter Russia from further attacks. The need for military expertise from the outset is stressed.
While the UK and France have command and control capabilities, NATO resources are considered crucial for efficiency. The analysis highlights the significant vulnerability of the mission without US ISR capabilities.
Alternative proposals include UN coordination, but concerns exist regarding potential vetoes by Russia and China. The article concludes by noting the complexity of the situation and the ongoing discussions among involved nations.