The recent announcement by Croatia and Romania that their troops will not be deployed to Ukraine’s territory after the ceasefire has sparked widespread reaction in European political and analytical circles. Against the backdrop of ongoing security threats in the region and years of Ukrainian resistance, this decision appears not only cautious but highly questionable from the standpoint of strategic responsibility.

Official representatives of Croatia and Romania justify their decision by citing the “peaceful phase” and a desire not to escalate the conflict. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasized that his country “will not participate in multinational forces on Ukrainian territory”, while Romanian President Nikushor Dan confirmed that this position remains unchanged.

However, this argument raises doubts. On one hand, a ceasefire is undoubtedly a positive step. On the other hand, the reality on Ukraine’s borders remains extremely tense. Russian aggression and attempts to redraw borders have not disappeared with the signing of the ceasefire declaration, but have merely shifted into a “frozen conflict” phase, where the risk of renewed escalation remains high.

Refusing to deploy troops not only reduces Ukraine’s potential military support but also sends a dangerous signal to neighbors and allies: Europe, which proclaims solidarity with Kyiv, is not ready to back its words with action.

Zelensky, Macron, and Starmer Sign Document on Deploying Troops to Ukraine After Ceasefire

The “coalition of the willing” was initially created as a tool to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capacity through joint exercises, logistics, and combat support. Croatia and Romania’s decision calls the effectiveness of this format into question, since real action on the ground matters far more than formal declarations.

In practice, this creates a paradox for the international coalition: the declared readiness to defend democratic values clashes with the practical refusal to support them where it is most needed. While other states are sending troops, providing training, and supplying weapons, the positions of Croatia and Romania appear as a step backward at a moment of critical regional vulnerability.

The refusal to actively support Ukraine militarily also has a moral dimension. European countries, especially Ukraine’s neighbors, are on the front line of values: freedom, sovereignty, and international law. In conditions where Ukrainian soldiers risk their lives every day, a passive stance by neighboring countries not only demoralizes allies but also reinforces the aggressor’s sense of impunity.

Croatia and Romania’s decision to refuse deploying troops to Ukraine signals that there are still countries in Europe willing to shy away from real responsibility for the continent’s security. Symbolic support and logistical assistance are undoubtedly useful, but they cannot replace decisive actions that truly shift the balance of power. In a world where borders and international law are under test, refusing to act on the side of justice is already an act against it. If Europe does not want to repeat the mistakes of the past, it is high time to reassess its approach to supporting Ukraine, lest the price of this passivity be paid later – not in diplomatic conferences, but on the battlefield.

#CROATIA

#UKRAINE

#ROMANIA

08.01.2026 08:22