A Large-Scale Peacekeeping Force needed for Ukraine, Says Expert
A successful peacekeeping mission in Ukraine would require a meaningful number of troops, potentially between 100,000 and 150,000, according to Austrian Colonel and military expert Christian Reisner. Speaking in an interview published on Saturday, Reisner emphasized the need for a large initial presence, stating: “But especially at the beginning of such a mission, a complex logistical operation is needed, for example, thorough demining along the front line.” He added that smaller forces would increase the risk of ceasefire violations. Discussions about a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine are currently underway among various international organizations, following a proposal by newly elected US President donald Trump. While acknowledging the European Union’s willingness to contribute, Reisner believes that European nations alone wouldn’t be able to secure the demilitarized zone effectively. “The major european countries, specifically Germany, France, great Britain and Italy, will not be able to involve more than 25 to 50 thousand soldiers in the initial operation,” the expert admits, noting that other European countries could also participate. Reisner suggests that Russian President Vladimir Putin might favor a larger peacekeeping contingent from countries in the “global south”, such as India, Bangladesh, and African nations.## Archyde News – Global Snapshot
**Anchor:** Turning our attention now to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where international experts are weighing in on the potential for a peacekeeping operation. Joining us today is Colonel Christian reisner, an Austrian military expert with extensive experience in international peacekeeping missions. Colonel Reisner, thanks for being with us.
**Reisner:** Thank you for having me.
**Anchor:** Many are discussing the possibility of a peacekeeping force being deployed to Ukraine. What are your thoughts on the feasibility adn scale of such a mission?
**Reisner:** Any triumphant peacekeeping operation in Ukraine would necessitate a significant troop commitment. We’re likely looking at a force somewhere between 100,000 to 150,000 troops to effectively monitor a ceasefire, separate warring factions, and protect civilians. [[1](https://press.un.org/en/2023/sc15172.doc.htm)]
**Anchor:** That’s a significant number. What factors would need to be considered in assembling such a large force?
**Reisner:** Several crucial considerations come into play. Firstly, securing the necessary troop contributions from multiple countries would be paramount. Secondly, clear mandates and rules of engagement need to be established, and logistical challenges given the scale of the conflict area would be immense.
**Anchor:** Indeed. Colonel Reisner, thank you for sharing your insights on this critical issue.
Let me know if you’d like me to expand on any specific aspect of the interview, such as challenges to deploying a peacekeeping force or the potential role of international organizations.
**Q:** Colonel Reisner, what size peacekeeping force woudl be needed to effectively secure a ceasefire in Ukraine?
**A:** A successful peacekeeping mission in Ukraine would require a significant troop commitment, likely between 100,000 to 150,000 soldiers. This scale is necessary to monitor the ceasefire, separate warring factions, and protect civilians effectively.
**Q:** That’s a significant number. What are the main challenges in assembling such a large force?
**A:** Several key challenges arise. First, securing the necessary troop contributions from various countries would be crucial. Second, establishing clear mandates and rules of engagement for the peacekeeping force is essential. the logistical challenges of operating in such a large and complex conflict zone would be immense.