Von der Leyen: Europe Preparing ‘Precise Plans’ to Deploy Troops to Ukraine Post-Conflict

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed that Europe is preparing “pretty precise plans” for a multinational troop deployment to Ukraine, aimed at supporting the country’s long-term security following the end of the war with Russia.
In an interview  Von der Leyen said the initiative is part of a broader framework of post conflict security guarantees for Ukraine, which would include the backing of U.S. military capabilities.
“We are working on pretty precise plans for a multinational presence in Ukraine,” she said, adding that this would not involve active combat troops, but rather a form of long-term security presence or stabilization mission.
The details of the deployment including which countries will contribute forces, under what legal mandate, and how it will be coordinated with NATO  are still under discussion. However, von der Leyen emphasized that planning is already underway, and the objective is to ensure that Ukraine is never left vulnerable again.
Strategic Shift in European Policy
This statement marks a significant shift in Europe’s defense posture toward Ukraine, which until now has been largely focused on financial aid, weapons supplies, and refugee support. European Union members have been cautious about any direct military deployment due to fears of escalation with Russia.
Since Russia launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Western nations have provided billions in military assistance. However, a formal multinational deployment inside Ukraine post conflict would represent a new phase of engagement.
U.S. Backing Critical
Von der Leyen stressed the importance of transatlantic cooperation: “We are aligning our efforts with the United States. U.S. capabilities are crucial, not only for deterrence but also for any post-war stabilization mission.”
While Washington has not publicly confirmed its role in such plans, U.S. officials have previously indicated openness to long-term security frameworks similar to those used in the Balkans or Afghanistan.
What Comes Next
Analysts say the success of this initiative will depend heavily on the outcome of the war and any negotiated settlement. The announcement comes amid ongoing fighting in Eastern Ukraine and ahead of a key NATO defense ministers meeting scheduled for mid September.
Russia has not officially responded to von der Leyen’s comments, but Moscow has long warned against any NATO or EU military presence inside Ukraine, labeling it a direct provocation.