Canada plans potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine

Canada is starting to plan for a possible peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. This mission would involve troops from various Western countries joining together. Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin, who leads Canadian military operations, said discussions among military commanders from 28 nations will begin this week. The idea of deploying a peacekeeping force has received mixed reactions. Ukraine and Russia are currently engaged in indirect talks about a ceasefire. A preliminary agreement includes a one-month halt to attacks on energy infrastructure. However, how and when this ceasefire will be implemented remains unclear. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has proposed a peacekeeping force that would involve NATO countries, including Canada. Canada's Defence Minister Bill Blair has indicated that the country is prepared to send troops if a ceasefire is reached. Canada is facing challenges in contributing troops due to an ongoing federal election and a shortage of personnel in the military. The Canadian Armed Forces have been struggling to recruit more members after the COVID-19 pandemic and a crisis involving senior commanders. Currently, about 400 Canadian troops are training Ukrainian forces, but these troops might be reassigned for peacekeeping duties instead. Boivin emphasized that while they want to help Ukraine, Canada's commitments to NATO must be maintained, particularly with their role in Latvia. The size of the potential peacekeeping force could be significant, possibly requiring tens of thousands of soldiers. Experts warn that ensuring peace in Ukraine might require a well-armed force capable of countering any threats from Russia. An effective peacekeeping operation would likely need U.S. support, especially for air and naval protection.