Peace Plan Must be Established Only Then Can Sending Troops be Considered
Portugal’s Defense Minister, Nuno Melo, stated that sending Portuguese troops to Ukraine will only be considered after a peace plan is established. He emphasized that such a decision is not currently being evaluated. Speaking in a parliamentary defense committee, he also clarified that Portugal’s alliance with the U.S. is independent of any particular administration, including that of Donald Trump.
When discussing a peace plan, it must first be implemented, and only then should the need to send troops be evaluated. (...) Let’s focus on the peace plan that we all hope for, and afterward, consider the possible need for military participation, always in coordination with our allies.
Portugal’s Defense Minister, Nuno Melo
Melo Calls For Increased Spending on the Military
Melo stressed the importance of working discreetly on peace plans rather than making premature statements about military involvement. He also highlighted the need for European NATO countries to increase their defense investments to be less dependent on the U.S.
Melo Indirectly Challenges Trump’s Ukraine Resource Deal
Regarding concerns about U.S. reliability, he pointed out that Portugal’s support for Ukraine is not based on resource interests, unlike some U.S. perspectives. He also echoed the German chancellor’s call for strengthening NATO’s European pillar.
Melo Takes Action on Military Salaries, Housing, and Recruitment
In domestic matters, Melo outlined government measures including salary increases for military personnel, housing projects for service members, and efforts to boost military recruitment. He acknowledged the ongoing issue of pilots leaving the armed forces but noted that 100 pilots are in training, with 20 expected to be ready by 2027.
Source: Publico.pt
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