The United Kingdom and France have agreed on a plan to send troops to Ukraine once a ceasefire is reached with Russia. The two countries signed a declaration of intent that outlines their readiness to deploy forces after fighting stops.
This decision followed high-level talks in Paris between Ukraine and its allies. During the discussions, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said London and Paris would work together to strengthen Ukraine’s security after a ceasefire and help prevent any future invasion.
Military Hubs and Protected Facilities Planned
According to Starmer, the plan includes setting up military hubs across Ukraine and building protected storage sites for weapons and military equipment. These steps aim to support Ukraine’s defence and act as a deterrent against renewed Russian aggression.
He said the allies also agreed that the United States would monitor the situation on the ground once a ceasefire takes effect. This monitoring role is meant to ensure stability and reduce the risk of violations.
“We signed a declaration of intent on the deployment of forces to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. This is a vital part of our commitment to stand with Ukraine for the long-term,” Starmer said.
Legal Framework for Allied Forces
Starmer explained that the declaration would help create a legal framework for foreign troops operating in Ukraine. This framework would allow British, French, and partner forces to work on Ukrainian soil in an organised and lawful way.
“It paves the way for the legal framework under which British, French, and partner forces could operate on Ukrainian soil, securing Ukraine’s skies and seas, and regenerating Ukraine’s armed forces for the future,” he added.
Warning Over Russia’s Willingness for Peace
At the same time, the UK prime minister cautioned that a peace deal would only be possible if Russia was willing to compromise. He expressed doubt over Moscow’s intentions, saying recent actions suggested otherwise.
“We can only get to a peace deal if Putin is ready to make compromises. And so we have to be frank, for all Russia’s words, Putin is not showing that he is ready for peace. Over the last few weeks, we’ve seen the opposite.”
Coalition of the Willing Meets in Paris
The announcement came after the largest meeting so far of the so-called Coalition of the Willing in Paris. The gathering brought together European leaders and US envoys to discuss support for Ukraine.
While officials spoke of progress, the talks also reflected underlying tensions linked to the United States’ more assertive foreign policy under President Donald Trump, particularly in the Western Hemisphere.
US Role in Truce Monitoring
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff said Ukrainian and American officials would continue discussions on Wednesday. Zelensky thanked Washington “for its readiness to provide a backstop in all areas”.
French President Emmanuel Macron said the proposed guarantees would be “robust.” He added that the United States would lead a truce monitoring mechanism, with European countries taking part.
Macron made these remarks after talks involving representatives from 35 countries, including 27 heads of state or government, highlighting the scale of international involvement in efforts to secure peace in Ukraine.