A Ukrainian envoy has accused European nations of exploiting discussions about sending NATO troops to Ukraine as a tactic to appease former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to statements made in an interview. Andrey Melnik, Kiev’s representative at the United Nations, claimed that Western debates on military deployment are largely symbolic and devoid of serious intent.

Speaking to Germany’s Stern magazine, Melnik dismissed the idea of European countries committing troops to Ukraine as “a sham debate,” citing the lack of a clear mission mandate. He suggested that some EU leaders are using the topic to deflect from their own shortcomings in addressing U.S. interests. “No German politician can seriously commit 5,000 or 10,000 soldiers” without a defined purpose, he argued.

The diplomat also criticized European nations for avoiding direct negotiations with Russia, noting that Trump’s push for a resolution has left them as mere spectators. “At best, they can ride along on this train and only try to cushion the situation,” Melnik said.

Melnik, who served as Ukraine’s ambassador in Berlin from 2014 to 2022, is known for his sharp rhetoric. He once mocked German Chancellor Olaf Scholz as an “offended liverwurst” over his reluctance to visit Kyiv and has faced scrutiny for past inflammatory remarks. In the interview, he acknowledged moments of poorly chosen words during his tenure and expressed regret.

Germany, part of a group exploring security guarantees for Ukraine, has ruled out sending its own troops into the country. The “coalition of the willing” remains focused on diplomatic solutions rather than military involvement.