UK Joins New Coalition to Deploy Forces in Ukraine

PARIS

The United Kingdom has formally joined a new multinational coalition that could deploy foreign forces inside Ukraine, marking a significant shift in Western involvement as diplomatic efforts intensify around a potential ceasefire with Russia.

The move was confirmed after talks in Paris between UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The three leaders signed a declaration outlining plans for a “coalition of the willing” , a group of allied countries prepared to contribute troops and resources to help secure Ukraine once an official ceasefire is in place .

British officials stressed that any deployment of UK forces would only happen after a binding ceasefire agreement with Russia and within a clearly defined legal and political framework. The proposed mission is described as a security and reassurance force, not a frontline combat operation. Its role would include stabilizing key areas, protecting critical infrastructure, supporting Ukraine’s military recovery, and deterring renewed aggression .

France and the UK are leading the initiative, with officials indicating that thousands of troops could eventually be involved as part of a multinational presence. Military planning includes the creation of logistical hubs inside Ukraine and coordinated air, land, and maritime security measures aimed at maintaining peace once fighting stops. While Britain and France are expected to provide the backbone of the force, more than two dozen countries have reportedly expressed interest in contributing in various capacities, ranging from logistics and training to direct troop deployments .

The United States has welcomed the initiative but has stopped short of committing ground troops. According to allied officials, Washington is expected to provide diplomatic backing, intelligence sharing, and monitoring support as part of broader security guarantees for Ukraine. The coalition is being developed outside NATO’s formal command structure, allowing participating countries to move more quickly without requiring unanimous alliance approval .

Russia has reacted sharply to the announcement. The Kremlin warned that any foreign troops deployed in Ukraine would be considered legitimate military targets, describing the plan as a dangerous escalation. Russian officials accused Western nations of undermining prospects for peace by expanding their military footprint closer to Russia’s borders .

The proposal has also sparked debate within the UK. Supporters argue that a robust international presence is essential to prevent future Russian attacks and to give Ukraine credible security guarantees after years of war. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the risks of deploying British troops, potential long-term commitments, and the possibility of being drawn into renewed conflict if the ceasefire collapses .

Military analysts say the coalition represents a notable evolution in Western strategy moving beyond weapons deliveries and financial aid toward a physical presence on the ground. They note that the success of such a mission would depend heavily on clear rules of engagement, strong command structures, and sustained political unity among participating nations.

For Ukraine, the announcement is being viewed as a major diplomatic breakthrough. President Zelenskyy has repeatedly argued that post-war security guarantees are essential to ensure the country’s survival and to prevent future invasions. Ukrainian officials say the presence of allied forces would send a powerful signal of long-term international commitment.

While no deployment date has been set, planning is expected to accelerate alongside ceasefire negotiations. As talks continue, the emerging coalition underscores how the conflict is reshaping Europe’s security landscape and how far Western nations may be willing to go to secure a lasting peace in Ukraine.

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