UK and France Pledge Troop Deployment to Ukraine Post-Ceasefire

In Paris, leaders from the United Kingdom, France, and Ukraine signed a declaration of intent to deploy multinational forces to Ukraine contingent upon a peace agreement with Russia. The agreement, signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aims to bolster Ukraine's security and support its reconstruction efforts.

The proposed deployment includes establishing military hubs across Ukraine to protect weapons and military equipment essential for the country's defense needs. Starmer emphasized the UK's commitment to participating in U.S.-led monitoring and verification of any ceasefire, as well as working towards binding commitments to support Ukraine in the event of future armed aggression by Russia.

Macron highlighted that the coalition had developed plans to undertake ceasefire monitoring under American leadership and to provide long-term support to Ukrainian armed forces, who remain at the forefront of defense. He noted that the deployment would serve as a reassurance force stationed well behind the contact line, with the goal of maintaining peace rather than engaging in combat.

Zelenskyy welcomed the security guarantees, stating that the coalition's commitments were substantive and not merely words. He expressed gratitude to every leader and state genuinely seeking a peaceful solution.

The declaration follows a summit in Paris attended by over two dozen leaders from the 'coalition of the willing,' including U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The coalition has been exploring ways to deter future Russian aggression and ensure Ukraine's long-term security.

While the UK and France have committed to deploying troops, other nations, such as Germany, have indicated a willingness to deploy forces on neighboring NATO territory after a ceasefire is established. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany is not fundamentally ruling anything out.

The Kremlin has consistently opposed the presence of NATO forces in Ukraine following any peace deal, complicating negotiations. Starmer acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that achieving a peace deal requires compromises from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has yet to demonstrate readiness for peace.