Foreign troops in Ukraine: an expert explained what is behind this discussion

The issue of sending foreign troops to Ukraine continues to be discussed at the international level. For example, the newspaper Le Monde reported that after the visit of British Prime Minister Cyrus Starmer to France, both countries again returned to the mentioned topic. But British Foreign Secretary David Lamy rejected this idea. at the same time, the topic periodically appears in political discussions, especially in the context of a possible threat to the security of NATO countries.

Political analyst Taras Semenyuk, in a comment to UNN, explained what political and legal aspects relate to such a decision, as well as how it could affect the balance of power at the front.

The expert explained that the admission of foreign combat units to the territory of Ukraine is regulated by law and requires a decision of the Verkhovna Rada.

"We are not talking about instructors or specialists, but about combat units. This requires permission from the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. In particular, there should be a decision on the admission of foreign troops to the territory of Ukraine. Such cases have already occurred, for example, during joint exercises with NATO countries or when Alliance ships entered Ukrainian ports," the expert said.

As for the combat units that could directly participate in the war, according to the expert, no one will publicly confirm this. Such decisions, even if they are considered, are not submitted for public discussion. This is an issue that is resolved exclusively at the level of the military-political leadership.

The political scientist also answered why the issue of sending troops is discussed from time to time.

"It depends on who raises this topic and for what purpose. For example, earlier it was said that NATO troops could be sent to Ukraine if Russia begins to rapidly advance through the territory, creating a threat to NATO. Then perhaps they will consider such an idea. But even in such a situation, the decision must be made by the Parliament of a NATO member country. This is not an easy process. It wasn't just one person who decided and sent it. Now we are not talking about sending foreign troops," the expert noted

According to him, it would not be so difficult for Ukraine to get permission for the presence of foreign troops, but for NATO countries this is a politically sensitive topic, especially because of possible opposition in their parliaments.

"Perhaps Russia will do everything possible to use this situation not only against our country, but also against our partners. Therefore, so far this is only rumors and unverified information," Semenyuk added.

He also explained that the consequences of such a decision are now difficult to predict, since the situation in the war is changing very quickly.

"For example, the participation of foreign troops could lead to a large-scale escalation, in fact, to the Third World War, when other countries join the conflict. If we talk about the participation of North Korean troops on the side of Russia, then this is one format. Russians can say:"you also have an international Legion." But it is necessary to clearly distinguish the Foreign Legion, which is a separate combat unit, from the regular troops of another state. Regular troops of another state are authorized by the Parliament of that country. This is how democracy works. One leader cannot solve this," Semenyuk said.

Therefore, now, according to the expert, even for leaders such as Macron or the British prime minister, this topic is unpopular. It will be immediately criticized, and no one will take such a step now.

The expert also explained whether the troops of another country could affect the balance of power at the front.

"This can potentially affect, but it all depends on the number of these troops, their composition and how they are used. The impact is possible, but it is calculated within the framework of so-called strategic planning. Here you need to analyze and express yourself very carefully. For example, the presence of about 200 F-16 aircraft with about 500 pilots and corresponding missiles, obviously, can change a certain balance of power," Semenyuk said.

Risks and consequences of refusing direct military support to Ukraine

The refusal of the presence of troops is explained by an attempt to avoid a direct confrontation with Russia, which can escalate into a global conflict. In other words, preference is given to "indirect participation", which provides for supporting our country with weapons, funding, and sanctions, but without involving NATO in an open armed conflict.

What are the consequences of this position?:

Ukraine remains dependent on arms supplies and training, but these measures have their limits in effectiveness against the large military resources of the Russian army.

- In the event of a rapid advance of Russian troops due to the lack of direct counteraction, security risks for other countries increase.

- The Ukrainian side may begin to demand more supplies of modern weapons, including long-range missiles or aircraft, which may increase the costs of partner countries.

"If the war turns into a protracted conflict without clear military solutions, it could weaken NATO's ability to respond quickly to other crises and reduce its reputation as a powerful alliance.

The absence of Western military personnel in Ukraine may provoke other states, such as Iran and North Korea, to more actively support Russia, which will complicate the situation on the battlefield.

Sending foreign troops to Ukraine or increasing military assistance from Western countries remains a complex and multifaceted issue. While assistance is important for strengthening Ukraine's defense capability, this decision entails a number of risks — from escalation of the conflict to economic and moral consequences for supporting countries. Political leaders and the international community must find a balance between ensuring Ukraine's security and maintaining stability on the world stage, understanding the importance of both military and diplomatic support.