The UK and France have signed a declaration of intent on deploying troops in Ukraine if a peace deal is made with Russia, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced.
After talks with Ukraine's allies in Paris, he said the UK and France would establish military hubs across Ukraine to deter future invasion, while French President Emmanuel Macron later stated that thousands of troops could be deployed.
Allies also largely agreed on robust security guarantees for Ukraine, with the US expected to lead in monitoring a truce. However, discussions regarding territorial issues are ongoing.
Russia has repeatedly warned that any foreign troops in Ukraine would be a 'legitimate target.'
Moscow has not yet commented on the announcements made in the French capital.
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with Moscow currently controlling about 20% of Ukrainian territory.
Heads of state and top officials from the 'Coalition of the Willing' took part in Tuesday's talks in Paris.
In a joint press conference, Starmer emphasized the importance of the declaration, framing it as a commitment to long-term support for Ukraine. He stated, This 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.
The UK prime minister also noted that London would engage in any US-led verification of a potential ceasefire.
Meanwhile, President Macron expressed optimism that significant progress had been made during the discussions, which he described as crucial for providing Ukraine the security assurances it requires in the event of a ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged a 'huge step forward' but urged that true progress hinges on definitive outcomes in the war, underscoring that the ongoing conflict's dynamics complicate the peace process.
