French President Emmanuel Macron hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and officials from over 30 allied nations in Paris to discuss the establishment of security guarantees for Ukraine. These discussions centered on potential frameworks for Ukraine's security in the event of a ceasefire with Russia, including proposals for a United States-led ceasefire monitoring mechanism and a European-led multinational force.
Paris Meeting Convenes
The gathering, involving heads of state and top officials from a group referred to as the 'Coalition of the Willing,' focused on advancing discussions for security guarantees for Ukraine. Attendees included US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The discussions took place at France's Elysee Palace.
Proposed Security Framework Outlined
Discussions included a draft statement outlining a framework for post-ceasefire security measures. Key elements proposed within this framework include:
- Ceasefire Monitoring: The United States would lead a continuous ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, with European and international participation.
- Multinational Force: A US-supported, European-led multinational force would be designated for deployment in Ukraine following a ceasefire. This force would aim to provide "reassurance measures in the air, at sea and on land" for Ukraine and facilitate the "regeneration of the armed forces of Ukraine."
- US Role in Force: US participation in this multinational force would encompass intelligence and logistical capabilities. The United States would also commit to providing support in the event of a renewed Russian attack.
- Binding Commitments: The framework proposes binding commitments to support Ukraine in the event of a future armed attack by Russia. These commitments could include military capabilities, intelligence and logistical support, diplomatic initiatives, and the imposition of additional sanctions.
Broader Context and Previous Discussions
Ukrainian President Zelensky had previously indicated that a peace plan with Russia was approximately 90% agreed upon during a recent meeting with former US President Donald Trump. These specific proposals have not yet been formally presented to Russia. Potential agreements in these discussions have reportedly involved territorial concessions from Kyiv.
Russia currently controls approximately 75% of the Donetsk region and 99% of the Luhansk region, which together constitute the Donbas industrial area. Russia initiated invasions of Ukraine in 2014 and again with a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Russia has stated its objective to secure full control of the Donbas region and has maintained opposition to temporary ceasefires. The country has also intensified attacks in Ukraine, reportedly targeting energy and power infrastructure during winter months. Concurrently, Ukraine has conducted drone strikes, including one reported on an oil depot in Russia's Lipetsk region.
Stated Positions and Objectives
Ukraine has consistently stated its requirement for security guarantees comparable to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) mutual defense agreement. Russia, in turn, has indicated a preference for any peace agreement to prohibit Ukraine from joining military alliances. President Zelensky has previously stated that the United States offered 15-year security guarantees following his talks last month, though the specifics of their implementation remain undefined. Moscow has not publicly affirmed acceptance of the proposed security arrangements discussed in Paris.