“A NATO-led military mission in Ukraine must be multidimensional — on land, in the air, and at sea. Much like the Mercedes emblem, with its three-pointed star symbolizing these three domains. This means the presence of ground forces, an air shield with aerial patrols and adequate air defense systems, and a corresponding maritime component.”

Alyona Getmanchuk, Director of the New Europe Center, writes for Ukrainska Pravda, analyzing the parameters of an effective international military mission in Ukraine, drawing on the experience of previous multinational operations.

According to the expert, just six months ago, the idea of deploying NATO member state troops to Ukraine seemed unrealistic — even to Ukrainians themselves. Today, however, military representatives from France and the United Kingdom — countries initially seen as drivers of both the mission and the broader “Coalition of the Willing” — are discussing concrete parameters with Ukraine, while Ukrainian society is already shaping clear expectations regarding such a mission.

Getmanchuk emphasizes that if the majority of the recommended parameters are considered, this mission — alongside the continuation and expansion of military support for the Armed Forces and increased investment in Ukraine’s defense industry — could become a game-changer in bringing the war to an end. It may also form the basis of a new principle: if Ukraine is not yet in NATO, then NATO must be in Ukraine.

Experts from the New Europe Center have analyzed a range of international military missions and developed a series of infographics to support discussions about the potential mandate of a foreign military presence in Ukraine. These materials are available on the New Europe Center’s website via the link.

Read the full analysis via the link here (Ukrainian).