August M
Talks in Paris have produced new signals of Western resolve over Ukraine’s future security, as leaders outlined steps that could follow any ceasefire with Russia. While no agreement has been reached to end the war, officials described the discussions as a significant moment in shaping what comes next.
The announcements underline growing coordination among Kyiv’s allies, even as key details remain unresolved.
Paris talks outcome
Following a summit of more than 30 countries from the so-called Coalition of the Willing, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK and France would be prepared to send troops to Ukraine “in the event of a peace deal” with Russia, according to BBC News.
Starmer said a declaration of intent signed in Paris “paves the way for [a] legal framework under which British, French and partner forces could operate on Ukrainian soil.” The agreement was signed alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Military plans outlined
Speaking at a news conference, Starmer said that after a ceasefire the UK and France would establish military hubs across Ukraine and build protected facilities for weapons and equipment to support the country’s defensive needs.
A statement issued by the Élysée Palace said coalition members committed to a European-led “multinational force for Ukraine” that could help deter future aggression and assist with rebuilding Ukraine’s armed forces.
Ukrainian reaction
Zelensky welcomed the announcement, calling it a “huge step forward,” but cautioned that it would only be sufficient “when the war in Ukraine will end.” He has repeatedly stressed that security guarantees must be credible enough to prevent renewed Russian attacks.
BBC News reported that Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials continue to press allies for clarity on how such guarantees would be enforced.
US involvement
US special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters that President Donald Trump “strongly stands” behind security protocols discussed in Paris. He said “durable security guarantees and robust prosperity commitments are essential to a lasting peace.”
Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, described the talks as “a very, very big milestone,” adding: “This does not mean that we will make peace, but peace would not be possible without the progress that was made here today.”
Caution and resistance
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Berlin could have a presence in a neighbouring NATO area after a peace deal, while stressing that compromises would be required to end the war.
Russia has previously said it would not accept European troops on Ukrainian soil, a position that continues to cast uncertainty over the proposals.
Sources: BBC News
