A senior German lawmaker expects German soldiers to be deployed for peacekeeping in the event of a permanent ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, according to an interview on Wednesday morning.

Thomas Röwekamp, the chairman of the Defence Committee in the Bundestag, stated that Europeans and Ukrainians have had poor experiences with Russian commitments, which is why effective military deterrence is necessary.

“That also means that German soldiers will ensure in future, after a peace agreement with Russia, that peace is maintained permanently,” Mr Röwekamp told the WDR broadcaster.

As examples of the kind of support the Bundeswehr could provide, Mr Röwekamp mentioned assistance with logistics, training Ukrainian soldiers, and air defence.

“There is a whole range of military capabilities that we have in the Bundeswehr [military] that can permanently secure peace in Ukraine,” the committee chairman said.

For Ukrainians, the question of possible allied security guarantees is a key point in any potential peace deal.

Distrust towards Russia is high after almost three and a half years of war.

“It is a matter of giving Ukraine a binding assurance, including military assurance, that in the event of a renewed attack by Russia. The Europeans, together with American troops, are prepared to repel an attack.

“Ultimately, no one wants war, and the safest way to prevent another military confrontation would be to deter the Russian army from such a war with a strong troop presence,” said Mr Röwekamp. 

(dpa/NAN)