One of the biggest issues is whether Europe can assemble a strong enough force.
Decades of reduced military spending have left many European countries with limited resources. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimates that 200,000 troops would be needed to enforce a ceasefire along the 600-mile front line. In reality, Europe may struggle to provide even a fraction of that number without US assistance. Air power and intelligence capabilities are also lacking, making any European-led force vulnerable without American support.
Another major challenge is convincing Trump to back the plan. The US president, has shown little interest in sending American troops or resources to Ukraine. Instead, he favors direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Without a strong US military presence, Europe’s plan may not be enough to deter Russian aggression.
Russia’s willingness to accept a ceasefire is also in doubt. Its forces continue to make gains, and without US military backing, Ukraine is in a weaker position. Putin has long opposed the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine, and with Trump potentially taking a softer stance on Russia, the Kremlin has little reason to compromise. Moscow’s ultimate goal remains to bring Ukraine under its control, replacing Zelensky with a pro-Russian government.
With Europe struggling to build a credible force, Trump unlikely to commit US support, and Russia still aiming for complete dominance, the road to peace remains full of obstacles.