A declaration of intent was signed by the United Kingdom and France regarding the potential establishment of military hubs and troop deployment in Ukraine, contingent on a peace agreement with Russia. This initiative emerged from international discussions in Paris involving over two dozen nations, aimed at developing comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine to deter future aggression and support its defense and reconstruction efforts.
Declaration of Intent and Scope
The United Kingdom and France formalized their intent through a joint declaration, signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This framework outlines the potential for British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian soil following a ceasefire agreement with Russia. The plan includes establishing military hubs across Ukraine and constructing protected facilities for weapons and military equipment. French President Macron indicated that a deployment could involve thousands of troops. The stated objectives of this arrangement are to secure Ukrainian airspace and maritime routes, assist in the regeneration of Ukraine's armed forces, and deter future acts of aggression.
International Discussions in Paris
The declaration followed a meeting in Paris attended by heads of state and officials from a "coalition of the willing," comprising 35 participants from European countries, Canada, and representatives from the United States, European Union, and NATO. The discussions focused on developing multi-layered international defense guarantees for Ukraine. A proposal was made for a U.S.-led mechanism for monitoring and verifying any potential ceasefire. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were involved in preparatory discussions for the American delegation.
Proposed Security Guarantees
The coalition outlined several commitments for Ukraine's long-term security. These include:
- The long-term provision of armaments, equipment, and training for Ukraine's defense.
- Working towards legally binding commitments to support Ukraine in the event of future Russian aggression.
- The establishment of a "U.S.-led ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism" to be overseen by a "Special Commission." This commission would be tasked with addressing breaches, attributing responsibility, and determining remedies.
- Commitments to intelligence and military industrial cooperation.
- Deployment of a multinational force to support the rebuilding of Ukraine's armed forces and bolster deterrence.
- In the event of future Russian aggression, offering military capabilities, intelligence and logistical support, diplomatic initiatives, and the adoption of additional sanctions.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany is "not fundamentally ruling anything out" regarding its future involvement, including the potential deployment of forces on neighboring NATO territory after a ceasefire.
Ukrainian Perspective
President Zelenskyy acknowledged the progress made during the discussions, noting that the management and command structures for these forces have been defined. He emphasized the necessity of security guarantees comparable to Article 5 of the NATO alliance's mutual defense agreement. Zelenskyy also underscored the importance of support from nuclear-armed nations, specifically Britain and France. He previously stated that a peace deal was approximately "90% ready," with the remaining 10% crucial for determining the future of peace and security. While rejecting territorial concessions, he has suggested mutual troop withdrawals to agreed points as a potential component of a settlement.
Russian Stance
Russia has not issued an immediate official comment regarding the specific declaration by the UK and France. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously expressed opposition to the deployment of NATO member troops on Ukrainian territory, and Moscow has warned that any foreign troops present in Ukraine would be considered a "legitimate target." Russia has also consistently stated that no ceasefire can occur until a comprehensive settlement is agreed upon, and President Putin has insisted on Ukraine's withdrawal from the eastern Donbas region, stating Russia would otherwise seize it. Russia currently controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including about 75% of Donetsk and 99% of Luhansk.
Unresolved Issues and Challenges
Participants in the discussions indicated that significant challenges remain in reaching a peace agreement. German Chancellor Merz suggested that "compromises" might be necessary to achieve a peace deal, acknowledging that "textbook diplomatic solutions" might not be feasible. Key unresolved issues in negotiations include territorial control and the specifics of security guarantees. Details such as monitoring mechanisms, the ultimate size of the Ukrainian army, and its financing are yet to be determined. The extent of future U.S. military involvement remains unspecified, as President Donald Trump has previously ruled out deploying American forces to Ukraine.