As discussions about a potential ceasefire in Ukraine gain momentum, Turkey has emerged as a possible contributor to a peacekeeping force.
With NATO’s second-largest army after the United States, Turkey’s involvement could play a crucial role in stabilizing the region. However, any deployment remains uncertain, as both diplomatic negotiations and military considerations are still evolving.
Turkey’s Role in Peacekeeping Talks
As reported by HotNews.ro, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has privately discussed the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
These discussions took place earlier this month in Ankara.
Turkey’s participation in a peacekeeping mission could reduce the burden on European allies, including the UK and France, which have been working on plans for a European-led stabilization force in Ukraine.
However, Turkish officials insist that Ankara will only join such an operation if it is fully involved in the planning and decision-making process.
Western Support and Russia’s Response
The idea of a multinational peacekeeping force has gained traction as U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin explore a ceasefire agreement.
While Trump has signaled openness to supporting European peacekeeping efforts, he has ruled out direct U.S. involvement.
Several European nations, including France and the UK, have expressed willingness to send troops to Ukraine as part of security guarantees.
However, any NATO presence in Ukraine remains controversial, with Russia firmly opposing the deployment of alliance forces. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov recently stated that Moscow is deeply concerned about NATO's discussions on peacekeeping missions in Ukraine.
Turkey’s Balancing Act
Since the start of the war, Erdoğan has maintained diplomatic ties with both Kyiv and Moscow. Turkey played a key role in brokering the Black Sea grain deal, which allowed Ukraine to export agricultural products despite the conflict.
Although Russia later withdrew from the agreement, Ankara continues to engage with both sides.
During a visit to Ankara on February 18, Zelensky expressed gratitude for Turkey’s involvement in peace negotiations, stating that "Turkey is a part of Europe" and should play a role in shaping security guarantees.
A senior Ukrainian official confirmed that Turkey remains committed to Ukraine’s sovereignty and supports reliable peace and security measures.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the path to a ceasefire and a NATO-backed peacekeeping force in Ukraine remains uncertain.
While Turkey’s potential involvement could strengthen European security, it also risks further tensions with Russia, which continues to resist any foreign troop presence on Ukrainian soil.
