UK France Troops Ukraine Ceasefire Deployment Military Hubs

Post by : Bianca Qureshi

The United Kingdom and France have signed a declaration of intent to deploy troops in Ukraine in the event of a peace deal with Russia, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced after high-level talks with Ukraine’s allies in Paris.

Starmer said the UK and France will establish military hubs across Ukraine to deter any future Russian invasion. French President Emmanuel Macron later confirmed that thousands of European troops could be deployed as part of a multinational force.

Security Guarantees and US Monitoring

Allies attending the Paris talks largely agreed on providing robust security guarantees for Ukraine. Under the proposed framework, the United States would take the lead in monitoring a ceasefire, should one be reached between Russia and Ukraine.

However, the most sensitive issue — territory — remains unresolved, with negotiations still ongoing over land currently occupied by Russian forces.

Russia Issues Warning

Russia has repeatedly warned that any foreign troops stationed in Ukraine would be considered a “legitimate target.” Moscow has not yet issued an official response to the announcements made in Paris.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Russia currently controls around 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Zelensky: Peace Deal ‘90% Ready’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the Paris talks as a “huge step forward,” but stressed that the efforts would only be sufficient if they resulted in a complete end to the war.

Zelensky said a peace deal is approximately 90% ready, adding that the remaining unresolved issues — particularly territorial arrangements and long-term security guarantees — will determine the future of Ukraine and Europe.

Donbas Remains a Major Sticking Point

Russia has made clear that it will not compromise on the Donbas region, warning that Ukrainian forces must withdraw or Moscow will seize the entire area. Currently, Russia controls about 75% of Donetsk and nearly 99% of Luhansk, the two regions that make up Donbas.

Zelensky has so far ruled out formally ceding Ukrainian territory, but has suggested that mutual troop withdrawals could be discussed — provided Russia takes the same steps.

Pressure Grows for a Ceasefire

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Russian missile and drone strikes continue to hit Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, including in eastern regions such as Kharkiv.

As winter deepens and battlefield losses mount, pressure is increasing on all sides to reach a ceasefire and peace agreement. Zelensky hopes that US-led monitoring, a European-backed security force, and continued military support will reassure Ukrainians that peace can be sustained.

Uncertain Path Ahead

While the Paris talks are being viewed as a diplomatic milestone, analysts caution that lasting peace will require Russian cooperation. President Putin has consistently opposed the deployment of a European-led international force and may be reluctant to halt Russia’s advance without achieving key war objectives.

#Global News #world news #Ukraine News