Zelenskyy’s plan to replace US troops in EU with Ukrainians is “inappropriate and harmful,” NATO Assembly chief says

October 20, 2024

By Ukraine

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NATO Parliamentary Assembly President Jerry Connolly, a Democratic congressman from Virginia, has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s proposal to substitute US forces in Europe with Ukrainian troops post-war, calling it “inappropriate” and “even harmful.”

“This proposal is ill-timed and appears to be a political overture to Donald Trump should he win the election,” Connolly stated in an interview with RFE/RL.

Former President Trump, who is running for re-election, has previously expressed skepticism about NATO and suggested reducing US military presence in Europe. He has also been critical of continued aid to Ukraine, raising concerns about future US policy should he return to office.

Zelenskyy’s Victory plan suggests that battle-hardened Ukrainian soldiers could fill the void if the US withdraws its European presence. However, Connolly argues this idea is counterproductive, emphasizing that America’s physical presence in Europe is crucial for allied reassurance.

“Encouraging US withdrawal from Europe serves neither Ukraine’s nor the allies’ interests,” Connolly asserted.

He acknowledged the possibility of deployment adjustments but stressed that a complete American exit, replaced by Ukrainian forces, would be detrimental.

About 100,000 US troops are stationed across various European NATO members, including recent reinforcements in Poland and Romania to bolster NATO’s eastern flank.

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