• US Vice President JD Vance states Europe must handle the majority of Ukraine's security post-war.
• The US will provide limited support, focusing on Europe’s primary responsibility.
• Vance's remarks align with ongoing discussions about peace negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine.

US Vice President JD Vance has asserted that European nations will need to shoulder the “lion’s share” of Ukraine’s security responsibilities as Washington looks to broker a peace deal between Kyiv and Moscow. He emphasized that the primary role lies with Europe, given its proximity to Ukraine, stating, “It’s their continent, it’s their security, and the president has been very clear—they’re going to have to step up here,” according to Al Jazeera and SCMP.

While Vance stated that the US aims to "be helpful if necessary" in stopping the war, he reiterated the expectation for Europe to lead security discussions and arrangements. He clarified, “We are not going to make commitments until we figure out what’s going to be necessary to stop the war in the first place,” reflecting the sentiments shared by President Donald Trump, who has ruled out deploying US troops in Ukraine, as reported by India Times and TRT Global.

Discussions surrounding the peace process have highlighted that Ukraine seeks robust security guarantees to ensure its territorial integrity, while Russia has expressed interest in specific territories. Vance made it clear that “the Ukrainians want security guarantees” and that any enduring peace must consider the territorial aspirations of both sides, according to SCMP and India Times.

Analysts warn that in pursuing a peacekeeping force, Europe must not underestimate the scale of military deployment required, which could involve tens of thousands of troops. According to Colonel Andre Wuestner of Germany's soldiers' union, a realistic approach would necessitate significant military resources to avoid a reliance on a “bluff and pray” strategy, indicating that the continent currently faces challenges in meeting NATO commitments, as reported by TRT Global and India Times.