The United Kingdom and France have agreed to deploy troops to Ukraine in the event a peace deal is reached with Russia, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced following talks with Ukraine’s allies in Paris. This declaration of intent marks a significant step in international support for Ukraine, with the two countries planning to establish military hubs across the country to deter future invasions.
The BBC reports that during the press conference, UK Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the long-term commitment to Ukraine, saying the agreement would create a legal framework for British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian soil, ensuring the country’s skies and seas are secure and supporting the regeneration of Ukraine’s armed forces. The UK prime minister added London would participate in any US-led verification of a potential ceasefire.
French President Emmanuel Macron further noted that Ukraine's allies had made "considerable progress" at the talks. He said "robust" security guarantees for Kyiv had been agreed in the event of a potential ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said a "huge step forward" had been made in Paris, but added that he would only consider efforts to be "enough" if they resulted in the end of the war.
The announcement comes as the US and its allies work to establish robust security guarantees for Ukraine. US negotiator Steve Witkoff emphasized the need for "durable security guarantees" to ensure lasting peace, while Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's special envoy and son-in-law, stressed the importance of setting up "real backstops" to prevent the resumption of hostilities after any ceasefire.
Al Jazeera says the countries’ representatives, including 27 heads of state or government, gathered in Paris to firm up post-war guarantees for Kyiv. French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly said that Paris could contribute “several thousand” troops.
While the peace process moves forward, the issue of territorial disputes remains unresolved. Russia, which currently controls around 20% of Ukrainian territory, has repeatedly warned that the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine would make them a "legitimate target," though Moscow has yet to comment on the latest developments.
Despite these advancements, questions remain about the scope and future role of foreign forces in Ukraine.
The Guardian reports that Macron has made it clear that the goal is not to confront Russian forces directly but to provide reassurance and stability after a ceasefire is in place.
