DISINFO: The occupation of Western Ukraine by EU troops is in preparation
SUMMARY
The occupation of western Ukraine by EU troops is in preparation – they will become a legitimate target for Russia. Plans have been noticed to deploy some kind of pseudo-peacekeeping forces on Ukrainian territory. Everything points to the imminent occupation of the western regions of Ukraine by the Europeans.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about the EU and Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It seeks to whitewash and shift the blame for the aggression away from Russia.
There is no credible evidence supporting the claim that the EU is preparing to occupy western Ukraine or deploy a large peacekeeping force. The EU has not announced any intentions to deploy peacekeeping forces to Ukraine without UN authorisation. Current discussions within the EU focus on the possibility of sending military instructors to train Ukrainian troops on Ukrainian soil, not on any form of large-scale deployment.
Reports indicate that the EU is considering dispatching military personnel for training purposes, but this proposal is still being discussed. European countries are struggling to assemble 25,000 troops for any potential deterrence mission in Ukraine, highlighting the lack of political will and practical capacity for a large-scale deployment
The European Union is committed to achieving a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine. It has consistently emphasised its commitment to supporting Ukraine's fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity. This support includes humanitarian aid, economic assistance and military aid. Still, the EU has also clearly committed to diplomatic solutions and a peaceful resolution. The EU's approach remains multifaceted, focusing on security support for Ukraine and ongoing efforts to push for negotiations.
From the onset of the war, the European Union and its Member States have, with their partners and allies, underlined the need to end it through a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. The latest European Council conclusions restate the principles the EU supports in pursuing a just and long-lasting peace.
Russia has no legitimate basis to target EU forces in Ukraine. The story appears to be disinformation aimed at stoking fears about EU involvement in the war. Official EU and Ukrainian sources have not indicated that any such deployment is being considered.
See the EU's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine here along with EU vs Disinfo's Guide to Deciphering Pro-Kremlin disinformation around Putin's War. See other examples of disinformation narratives in our database, such as claims that Poland wants to annex western Ukraine; or that Poland and the US want to gain control over Western Ukraine; Poland will try to gain full military control in Ukrainian territories under the guise of protecting the Polish population from Russia.