French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed deploying a European military force in Ukraine while the peace agreement remains in effect. He stated on Wednesday that if Russia launches an attack, this force will respond. Macron made the statement after discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. A detailed discussion on the proposal is set to take place on Thursday at a summit in Paris with leaders from over 30 countries, according to the Associated Press.
Macron emphasized that if Ukraine faces another large-scale invasion, the deployed force will be affected and must respond. He clarified that these forces would operate under the command of the Commander-in-Chief and would be stationed in strategic cities and bases rather than on the battlefield.
The initiative for this meeting was taken jointly by Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Their goal is to deploy a multinational force in Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression. However, Macron did not specify the nature of the response in case of a Russian attack.
According to the French presidential office, a meeting with representatives from 31 countries will take place at the Élysée Palace. The number of participants has increased compared to the previous summit in February, indicating growing interest in this coalition.
The United States will not be present at the discussion. The administration of President Donald Trump has not supported the proposal to send troops to Ukraine. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, referred to the idea as simplistic in an interview.
Zelensky stated that the multinational force could play a role in military training, monitoring the situation, and preventing potential Russian aggression. The European Union has already implemented special strategies to strengthen Ukraine’s military, and Britain has pledged continued military support.
A French official, speaking anonymously, mentioned that a force is being planned for deployment away from the war zone near the Dnipro River. British officials estimate that the force could consist of 10,000 to 30,000 troops.
Macron also announced €2 billion in military aid for Ukraine, including light tanks, air defense systems, and anti-tank missiles.