In order to support Ukraine in its defensive battle against Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron is no longer ruling out the use of ground troops from Western countries. Nothing can be ruled out to prevent a Russian victory in Ukraine, Macron said after concluding a Ukraine aid conference in Paris. SRF foreign editor Beat Vogt classifies.
Beat Vogt
Foreign editor
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Beat Vogt is SRF foreign editor and responsible for the Iberian Peninsula.
How concrete are Emmanuel Macron’s Ukraine plans?
They are probably not really concrete. Emmanuel Macron did not present this possibility himself as a result of the meeting, but only when a journalist asked him about it. But Macron confirmed that leaders had discussed it. And he said there was no consensus. Which in turn suggests that there are countries that are actually considering this. That’s probably why the formulation that everything is possible.
Caption: “There is no consensus today about officially sending ground troops,” said Macron. “But nothing can be ruled out in terms of dynamics. We will do whatever is necessary to ensure that Russia does not win this war.” Symbol image/Keystone/EPA/TIAGO PETINGA
Which countries can imagine taking part in such an operation in Ukraine?
The French President left that open. Every country can decide this sovereignly. But it is also clear that the meeting was not primarily about the deployment of ground troops, but rather about other military assistance such as the production of ammunition. Therefore, the possible deployment of ground troops should at least now be seen as a verbal threat.
Why is Macron’s statement about sending ground troops to Ukraine coming now?
In principle, one can assume that Emmanuel Macron wanted above all to emphasize Europe’s determination to continue supporting Ukraine. This is probably also due to the recent events in the war, where Russia was able to achieve some minor successes. Macron also accused Russia of taking tougher action. And he repeated several times that Europe should not allow Russia to win this war. Security and stability in Europe are at stake. But President Macron has also made it clear that they do not want to go to war with Russia.
Caption: French President Emmanuel Macron during the press conference at the Elysee Palace in Paris. Over 20 heads of state and government took part in the meeting. Keystone/Gonzalo Fuentes/Pool via AP