NATO has no plans to send troops to Ukraine The alliance's chief asserts

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has explicitly stated that the military alliance currently has no intentions of deploying combat troops into Ukraine.

The NATO chief made the statement in a conversation with The Associated Press on February 27.

This statement comes in response to emerging reports suggesting the deliberation among certain Western nations about the possibility of introducing ground forces in the conflict-stricken region.

“NATO allies are providing unprecedented support to Ukraine. We have done that since 2014 and stepped up after the full-scale invasion. But there are no plans for NATO combat troops on the ground in Ukraine,” he underscored.

While ruling out NATO military action, Stoltenberg said “that this is a war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine, blatantly violating international law. According to international law, Ukraine of course has the right to self-defense, and we have the right to support them in upholding that right.”

In the face of escalating tensions with Russia, NATO remains committed to providing Ukraine with non-lethal aid, including medical supplies, uniforms, and winter equipment. However, the alliance finds itself in a nuanced situation as some member countries independently send weapons and ammunition to support Ukraine bilaterally or in groups.

The decision-making process within NATO is underlined by a requirement for unanimous support from all member countries for any significant action, including the deployment of troops. The idea of putting boots on the ground has been deemed taboo, especially as NATO aims to avoid being entangled in a broader conflict with nuclear-armed Russia.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine two years ago, there has been a gradual shift in the type of support Ukraine receives from its NATO allies. While the alliance officially limits its assistance to non-lethal aid, some member nations have taken independent measures to provide more advanced and long-range weapons to Ukrainian forces.

This move comes amid concerns about the growing threat posed by Russia and the necessity for Ukraine to bolster its defence capabilities. Despite the reluctance within NATO to escalate the situation further, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions among member countries about the appropriate response to Russia's actions.

NATO's delicate balancing act reflects the complex geopolitical landscape and the organization's desire to support Ukraine without triggering a wider conflict. The situation underscores the challenges faced by the alliance as it navigates the fine line between aiding a partner in need and avoiding direct confrontation with a powerful adversary.