Ukraine needs massive European peacekeeping force to deter future Russian invasion - Zelenskyy

Zelenskyy stressed that ensuring Ukraine’s and Europe’s security post-ceasefire requires reliable guarantees, with a substantial peacekeeping contingent being a crucial element of these security measures.

200,000 peacekeepers represent the bare minimum necessary to prevent another Russian invasion, especially given that Russia’s armed forces could number 1.5 million troops while Ukraine’s would be half that size.

"200k troops is the minimum. Anything less is nothing," Zelenskyy said.

France’s Defense Ministry indicates this figure is equivalent to the total size of the French armed forces in 2020.

Zelenskyy also pointed out that peacekeeping effort is only one component of the broader security system Ukraine needs to ensure long-term stability.

On Jan. 21, President Zelenskyy arrived in Davos for the World Economic Forum. In his address, he underscored the importance of Europe becoming stronger and more capable, positioning itself as an equally valuable ally to the United States as the U.S. is to Europe.

Zelenskyy also remarked that European nations should not economize on their security, indirectly aligning with U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for NATO members to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.

European Commission President warned of the potential onset of a "global war of attrition" using economic tools such as sanctions, export controls, and tariffs.