EU Commission President Von der Leyen Outlines Concrete Plans for Ukraine Protection Troops
BRUSSELS – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has revealed concrete plans for the establishment of a multinational protection force dedicated to safeguarding Ukraine, as discussions intensify regarding long-term security commitments for the nation. The declaration comes amid continued fighting in eastern ukraine, where Ukrainian forces have prevented Russia from gaining complete control of a larger city, according to a statement from the Ukrainian general staff.
The initiative aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and signal unwavering European support in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. While details regarding troop contributions and deployment locations are still being finalized, von der leyen’s proposal marks a significant step towards formalizing a sustained security architecture for Ukraine, perhaps extending beyond the immediate conflict. This development occurs as Ukraine continues counter-offensive operations and reports attacks within Russian-occupied territory.
Russia claims to have conquered more than 3,500 square kilometers and 149 towns since March, figures the Ukrainian side asserts are “roughly exaggerated.” Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov stated these gains on Saturday.
Ukrainian forces have also reportedly conducted a series of attacks against russian units on the Crimean peninsula. Military sources report that a drone attack near Simferopol damaged at least three helicopters, and a subsequent rocket attack on a base at voloshchyno destroyed at least six air cushion boats. ukraine’s HUR intelligence agency also claimed a triumphant operation targeting a Russian radar station in Crimea, though these reports remain unverified by independent sources.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced plans for further attacks deep within Russian territory, following a meeting with General Oleksandr Syrskyj. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has accused European powers of obstructing potential peace efforts led by former US President Donald Trump, stating Russia will continue its military campaign until it observes genuine indications of a willingness to negotiate from Kyiv, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov.
