Portugal Does Not Rule Out Sending Troops For Peacekeeping Mission In Ukraine

Portugal may deploy its troops to Ukraine as part of a European peacekeeping mission.

Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo has not ruled out the possibility, sharing his views in a recent interview with Renascença radio.

However, he emphasizes that such a move will only occur if a ceasefire is established between the conflicting parties.

The composition of the potential European peacekeeping mission in Ukraine is still under discussion.

Meanwhile, numerous European countries have not ruled out the possibility of deploying their troops to Ukraine, should the conflict with Russia be resolved.

The European Mission

On March 10, Foreign Minister Lars Rasmussen and Defense Minister Troels Poulsen stated that Denmark was prepared to contribute to the mission should the need arise.

Additionally, Canada, Australia, and Ireland have expressed a willingness to consider deploying peacekeepers.

A similar statement was recently made by Türkiye, which will discuss the matter with all interested parties if it is deemed necessary for establishing regional stability and peace.

At the end of February, it was reported that the United Kingdom was ready to send its troops and combat aircraft to Ukraine for a peacekeeping mission.

At the same time, the EU believes that Ukraine’s primary security guarantees will come from a robust armed forces, supported by the EU through training, funding, and the provision of weapons. A European peacekeeping mission is expected to serve as a supplementary element of security.

Assistance from Portugal

Recently, Defense Minister Nuno Melo announced that the Portuguese government would continue to support Ukraine in 2025 as part of its ongoing commitments.

According to him, the assistance amounting to €226 million will be allocated both for the direct provision of weapons and the purchase of other military equipment. In addition, Portugal is an active participant in European initiatives that support Ukraine’s defense capabilities.