EU

As diplomatic efforts toward a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire gain momentum, Western policymakers face a critical strategic question: how to ensure any peace agreement actually holds. Military experts warn that history suggests Russia treats ceasefires not as steps toward peace, but as opportunities to rearm and resume pressure through alternative means. Retired Air Force Lieutenant General David A. Deptula and Naval War College Research Fellow Jahara Matisek argue that the key to a durable peace lies in constructing a robust airpower architecture capable of detecting, intercepting, and deterring Russian violations within minutes. Their solution: an Allied Air Command for Ukraine (AAC-U)—a multinational, integrated command structure that would unify Ukrainian fighters, allied aircraft, ground-based air defenses, and intelligence assets under unified control.