Zelensky says he does not have clear security pledge from allies

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he has not received clear security guarantees from European allies regarding protection against future Russian aggression. This follows the UK and France signing a declaration of intent to potentially deploy troops in Ukraine if a peace deal is reached with Russia. The US, however, did not sign such a pledge at talks in Paris. While the UK and France plan to establish military hubs in Ukraine to deter future invasion, full security guarantees, particularly legally binding agreements supported by parliaments, are still under discussion. The key issue of territorial concessions Ukraine may need to grant Russia as part of peace proposals remains unresolved. Russia currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory since its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The UK and France, as part of the "Coalition of the Willing," signed a declaration in Paris outlining security guarantees for Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russia. The agreement, supported by the U.S., pledges military, diplomatic, and economic assistance to Ukraine in the event of future Russian aggression. A multinational force, European-led with U.S. support, would be deployed to deter aggression and rebuild Ukraine's military. The U.S. would also lead a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism and participate in a commission to manage breaches. The Coalition committed to long-term military support, defense cooperation, and established a coordination cell in Paris. The declaration was announced by leaders from France, Ukraine, and the UK.