PARIS – On September 4, 2025, European leaders convened in Paris to formalize security assurances for Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russia. Representatives from 26 nations committed to deploying troops as a security assurance force once a peace agreement is established.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the force would not engage in offensive actions but would serve to secure peace and convey a strong strategic message. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of this formalized support, noting that each participating country would contribute according to its capabilities. He also highlighted the crucial role of a robust Ukrainian military in underpinning these security guarantees, citing Russia's consistent rejection of peace initiatives.
The "Coalition of the Willing," initially spearheaded by Britain and France in March 2025, aims to shield Ukraine from future Russian aggression. The Paris summit included heads of state and government, along with key figures such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President António Costa. Representatives from Japan, Australia, and New Zealand also participated, signaling broad international consensus. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff was present, and discussions included a call with U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed America's readiness to provide support.
While the exact composition and operational scope of the troop deployment are still under deliberation, the commitment from 26 nations represents a substantial step towards establishing long-term stability and creating tangible deterrence mechanisms. Experts suggest that a stable European security framework moving forward will likely depend on degrading Russia's military capacity, Ukraine's continued advancements, a weakened Russian economy, and sustained support from the EU and NATO. The commitment to provide security guarantees, including the potential deployment of troops, flying aircraft over Ukrainian territory, and ensuring Black Sea shipping, signifies a proactive approach to deterring future aggression and fostering lasting peace.