Berlin eyes role in Ukraine peace deal but says too early for decisions By Reuters

BERLIN (Reuters) – German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on Monday his country would likely play a role in securing a future ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine, but it was too early to say what the peacekeeping force might look like.

Speculation that Europe could step in in Ukraine if a ceasefire with Russia is reached has risen as countries await the return of US President-elect Donald Trump to the White House in January.

Trump has made it clear that he will push for an immediate ceasefire to end the conflict and that he sees Europeans as having to take first responsibility for the security of their continent.

Speaking to reporters in Berlin, Pistorius echoed other European politicians, saying it was too early to make decisions about troop presence in Ukraine, as neither talks nor a ceasefire were in sight.

“If there is a cease-fire, then of course the Western community, NATO partners, potentially the United Nations and the European Union should discuss how to ensure such a peace, such a cease-fire,” he said as Europe’s largest economy, will play a role there.”

Pistorius added that he could not yet say what such a role might entail, as it depends on the regime and conditions of the ceasefire and the possible mandate of the peacekeeping force.

He also emphasized that it should be clear that both Ukraine and Russia accepted such a mandate.

“You can tell from my answer that there are more questions than answers right now. And that’s why I can’t give you a definitive answer,” he said.