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Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated, that Western troops in Ukraine will be legitimate targets.
Russian president Vladimir Putin has stated, that Western troops in Ukraine will be legitimate targets.
What is happening?
A coalition of 26 countries has pledged to provide security guarantees to Ukraine once the war ends, Reuters reports.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced the commitment, which includes an international force on land, at sea, and in the air.
Summit includes call with Trump on U.S. role
Following the summit, Macron, other European leaders, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy held a call with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Macron stated that U.S. involvement in the security plan would be finalized soon, emphasizing that American backing is critical for the plan’s credibility and success.
Trump hints at dialogue with Putin
Later, when asked about future contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump said, “Yeah, I will be. We are having a very good dialogue.”
The comment adds to speculation about his potential diplomatic role as the U.S. finalizes its position on Ukraine’s postwar security.
Europe prepares for peace, even if it’s distant
Although peace in Ukraine still seems far off, European officials want to be ready when it comes. Security guarantees are designed to kick in the moment hostilities cease.
“The day the conflict stops, the security guarantees will be deployed,” Macron emphasized standing alongside Zelenskiy at a press conference in Paris.
Deployment plans vary across nations
Macron initially said all 26 countries would deploy to Ukraine, but later clarified that some would contribute from outside.
These roles may include training Ukrainian troops or supplying equipment. Details, including the number of troops involved, have yet to be disclosed.
Germany and Italy take cautious approach
Germany expressed willingness to participate, but only once conditions—especially U.S. commitments—are clear.
Italy ruled out sending troops but remains open to monitoring a ceasefire and training Ukrainian forces abroad.
France and Britain signaled they’re open to boots on the ground, postwar.
Zelenskiy praises concrete progress
Zelenskiy called the agreement “very specific substance,” highlighting its significance.
“Twenty-six countries agreed to provide security guarantees. Today, for the first time in a long time, this is the first such serious, very specific substance,” he said, applauding the progress.
Trump calls for tougher economic pressure
During his call with coalition leaders, Trump urged Europe to stop buying Russian oil, arguing it funds Moscow’s war.
He also called on European nations to increase economic pressure on China, which he accused of supporting Russia’s war efforts.
Macron confirmed joint plans for stricter sanctions on Russia’s energy sector—and potentially China.
Regional cooperation in the Black Sea
Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov said his country won’t send troops to Ukraine but is willing to support naval operations like de-mining the Black Sea.
Bulgaria also aims to form a regional security pact with Romania and Turkey to bolster stability in the area.
NATO pushes back against Putin’s red lines
While Putin warned NATO against sending troops to Ukraine as part of any peace deal, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte brushed off the warning.
“Why are we interested in what Russia thinks about troops in Ukraine? It’s a sovereign country,” he said, urging Europe to stop giving Putin undue influence over Western decisions.
