Europe to US: Coalition of the willing is ‘ready’ on security guarantees for Ukraine
4661 Min Read
European allies are pressing for certainty that the United States will provide a crucial backstop before they move ahead with security guarantees for Ukraine, according to the Elysée. Officials in Paris said most of the technical work has already been completed following the coalition’s first meeting in February.
The effort is designed to ensure Ukraine remains capable of deterring aggression once a ceasefire takes hold.
The plans under discussion focus on consolidating Ukraine’s armed forces over the long term, giving the country a sustainable position of strength. Another element is the possible deployment of an international reassurance force in no-contact areas across Ukraine, providing stability and reducing the risk of renewed confrontation. France said the key message going into Thursday’s coalition meeting is that European partners are ready to move forward, but that their commitment depends on formal US backing.
President Donald Trump has stated that European nations will need to shoulder most of the responsibility. He has ruled out sending US troops on the ground as part of the reassurance force. However, after recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska and with European leaders in Washington, Trump indicated he is prepared to provide a backstop to European-led efforts.
