Kiev, Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that 26 nations committed to sending troops as “security forces” to Ukraine once hostilities with Russia cease.
Macron made this statement following a meeting in Paris with representatives from the “Coalition of the Willing,” which includes 35 nations backing Ukraine. He clarified that these 26 countries have agreed to provide military personnel to ensure the security of Ukraine after a potential ceasefire or peace agreement, operating on land, sea, or air.
Earlier that day, Macron and European leaders, alongside Ukrainian President Voldy Mie Zelensky, discussed long-term military support and the continuation of aid from the US post-conflict. Zelenskyy had a separate meeting with Witkoff as well.
During a press conference with Zelensky, Macron emphasized that there is “no intention or purpose in engaging in a war against Russia,” but insisted on the need to prevent major attacks and solidify the involvement of the 26 nations in Ukraine’s lasting security.
While the specifics of US involvement in security guarantees remain unclear, both Macron and Zelensky expressed their willingness to participate in the plan, with Zelensky noting gratitude for that support. “We aren’t ready to go into detail about the format just yet,” he added.
Macron remarked that “planning work will be finalized in the US.”
European leaders commented on the conference’s ramifications, stating Russian President Vladimir Putin needs to peacefully resolve the conflict. The German government suggested that increased sanctions might follow if the situation drags on. After the conference, European leaders communicated with President Donald Trump.
The British Prime Minister highlighted their strong commitment to Ukraine, indicating it necessary to intensify pressure on Putin to halt hostilities.
In a telephone call, Finnish President Alexander Stubb mentioned that Trump pointed out the importance of exerting economic pressure on Russia, noting that buying Russian oil and gas essentially funds the war effort.
White House officials reported Trump stressing that Russia earned 1.1 billion euros from the EU in fuel sales over the past year. He also emphasized the need to pressure China to limit its support for Russia, although he had not been authorized to speak publicly on that matter.
German government spokesman Stephen Cornelius mentioned three critical “areas of action” laid out by German Prime Minister Friedrich Merz. He suggested that if Russia continues its aggression, Europe would increase sanctions and the chances for a diplomatic solution would rise.
Zelensky remarked that a meeting with Putin is unavoidable, stating, “This isn’t a matter of desire. It’s inevitable.” He noted that they support all meeting formats, whether bilateral or trilateral, but felt that Russia aims to delay such discussions.
No immediate response came from Russian officials regarding these assertions.
Putin, feeling isolated by the West but buoyed by military actions, remarked that “if common sense prevails, we can find an agreement to end the conflict,” acknowledging Trump’s “honest desire” for settlement.
Earlier this month, the US signaled a shift towards supporting Ukraine’s security assurances akin to NATO’s collective defense commitment, though the specifics of such support remain ambiguous. Ukraine continues to seek ongoing US intelligence and air support.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Latte advocated for a robust coalition to defend Ukraine against Russian aggression while reinforcing Europe to deter further military actions.
Citing intelligence warnings about Russia’s intentions toward other European nations, Latte stated, “We must ensure deterrence is never questioned, and that our response is severe.”
Latte also reiterated the importance of not underestimating Russia’s motives.
In Ukraine, Russian forces launched 112 strikes and engaged drones across the country overnight. Air defenses intercepted or disabled 84 of those drones.
Additionally, Russia announced that Estonia is expelling its diplomats in retaliation for the previous expulsion of Russian diplomats from Estonia.
