UK and France pledge troops to Ukraine post-ceasefire
The United Kingdom and France signed a historic declaration on Tuesday committing to deploy military forces in Ukraine following any peace agreement with Russia, offering Kyiv the most tangible security guarantee yet from Western allies. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron announced at a Good Will Coalition summit in Paris that their nations will establish military bases across Ukraine and construct protected facilities for weapons and equipment to bolster Ukrainian defense operations. The pact, inked alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, garnered support from representatives of 35 countries, including U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
"Post-ceasefire, the UK and France will set up military bases throughout Ukraine and build protected installations for weapons and military equipment to meet Ukraine's defense needs," Starmer stated at a joint press conference. The declaration provides a legal framework for British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian soil, secure airspace and waters, and rebuild the Ukrainian military.
The agreement incorporates a U.S.-proposed and led ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, with Witkoff noting that security protocols are "largely finalized." "We believe we have largely finalized the security protocols, which are crucial so the Ukrainian people know that when this ends, it will be forever," Witkoff said. Kushner called the meeting a "very, very important step" but cautioned it "doesn't mean we're going to get to peace." He stressed Ukraine requires guarantees of "security, robust deterrence, and real safeguards" to seal any deal.
Allies also pledged binding obligations to back Ukraine against future Russian aggression, potentially encompassing military capabilities, intelligence support, diplomatic efforts, and additional sanctions. Russia has steadfastly opposed NATO forces in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin stating in September that Western troops would count as "legitimate targets." Moscow offered no immediate response Tuesday, which fell on Orthodox Christmas Eve.
Starmer acknowledged looming challenges, saying: "We can only reach a peace deal if Putin is willing to compromise. So we must be frank. Despite all Russia's statements, Putin shows no readiness for peace." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated Germany might send forces to adjacent NATO territory post-ceasefire but would need parliamentary approval. Norway expressed willingness to contribute troops for Ukrainian training. Zelensky hailed the deal as "very concrete" with coalition nations' joint statements, though he noted commitments require ratification by each participant. Key details remain unresolved, including the multinational force's size, funding, and Ukraine's territorial issues.
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