Maloney proposes alternative to NATO to protect Ukraine from possible Russian attack

European leaders are negotiating a security guarantee mechanism for Kyiv, which would require Ukraine’s allies to respond within 24 hours to a possible new Russian attack.

This was stated by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Bloomberg reports.

According to the agency’s sources, the proposed format, called “NATO-lite”, does not provide for the formal application of Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty on collective defense. At the same time, it obliges countries that sign bilateral agreements with Ukraine to promptly coordinate steps in response to any aggression.

According to Bloomberg, possible measures include rapid defense support, strengthening the Ukrainian army, economic aid, and new sanctions against Russia. It is not yet clear whether the plan would include sending military contingents from individual countries.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto explained in an interview with La Repubblica that the essence of Meloni’s proposal is to create a mechanism through which NATO, as a defense alliance, could guarantee the protection of a foreign state, in particular Ukraine.

“Alternatively, countries can make individual commitments. Over time, the most effective mechanism will be chosen. In any case, NATO deterrence will have a more significant impact,” Crosetto added.

Recall that European leaders are developing a package of security guarantees for Ukraine, which provides for the introduction of a military contingent from several countries as part of a potential peace agreement. This should strengthen Kyiv’s position on the eve of a possible meeting between the presidents of Ukraine and Russia. According to media reports, about 10 countries have already expressed their readiness to send their troops to Ukraine, including Great Britain and France . The goal is to support the process of security guarantees after the cessation of hostilities, without going to the front line.

As reported, Great Britain is ready to send its troops to protect Ukrainian skies and ports, but participation in front-line battles is not envisaged.

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