200,000 American Troops? Zelensky Calls for U.S. Boots on Ukraine’s Front Lines [WATCH]

President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for American involvement in any peacekeeping mission in Ukraine during his address at the Davos World Economic Forum.

Speaking amidst intensifying discussions in European capitals about deploying peacekeepers to Ukraine’s front lines, Zelensky made it clear that such efforts would not succeed without the participation of U.S. forces.

BREAKING: Ukraine President Zelensky tells Trump Ukraine needs US troops on the ground to secure peace.

Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/ngE2UWcMG7

— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) January 22, 2025

Celebrate Trump’s Historic 2024 Victory with the Exclusive Trump 47th President Collection!

“It can’t be without the United States… Even if some European friends think it can be, no it can’t be. Nobody will risk without the United States,” Zelensky reportedly told Bloomberg on the sidelines of the event.

The discussions follow ongoing deliberations among European leaders in cities like Paris, Warsaw, and London about the prospect of a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Concerns have grown over the possibility of Russia using a pause in hostilities to regroup, re-arm, and launch further attacks.

To prevent such a scenario, some European leaders have floated the idea of deploying a multinational peacekeeping force to stabilize the region.

However, Zelensky stressed that such a force would require U.S. backing to be effective.

JUST IN: Ukrainian President Zelensky says he wants US troops on the front lines in Ukraine to secure peace with Russia.

pic.twitter.com/FTIXTAi9v3

— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) January 22, 2025

France’s President Emmanuel Macron has been a key proponent of the peacekeeping plan and has been in discussions with Zelensky for months. Zelensky previously referred to the proposal as “President Macron’s initiative regarding the presence of forces in Ukraine that could contribute to stabilizing the path to peace.”

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also expressed support for the idea, stating that the United Kingdom would play a “full part” in any peacekeeping mission.

Despite this enthusiasm, challenges remain.

A senior European official noted in December that even a force of 100,000 troops would severely strain European land forces.

British military leaders have also raised concerns about the country’s ability to contribute significantly, given the current state of the armed forces.

Retired British Army officers pointed out that the British military, including the Royal Navy, is stretched thin and may struggle to meet such commitments.

In addition to calling for U.S. involvement, Zelensky expressed optimism about China’s potential role in pressuring Russia toward peace.

He highlighted China’s significant economic and military ties with Russia, suggesting that Beijing could exert influence. “President Trump is the strongest,” Zelensky said, “but Xi Jinping can push Putin for peace, I’m sure.”

Earlier this month, Zelensky addressed NATO donor nations in Germany, advocating for “as many instruments as possible to force Russia into peace.”

Among the options discussed, the deployment of international contingents emerged as one of the most viable strategies.

Zelensky urged NATO members to act decisively, stating, “Be more practical in making it possible.”

The feasibility of a multinational peacekeeping force remains a topic of debate.

While some European leaders appear willing to move forward, others question whether their militaries have the capacity to take on such a mission without substantial American involvement.

As discussions continue, the role of the United States and other major powers will likely prove critical in shaping the outcome.

The Davos meeting highlighted the growing urgency of the situation in Ukraine and the international community’s search for solutions to ensure long-term stability in the region.

Whether peacekeepers will be deployed—and under what conditions—remains to be seen.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.