Moscow — Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected a Western proposal to deploy foreign troops to Ukraine once a ceasefire takes effect. French President Emmanuel Macron announced after a Paris summit that 26 countries had pledged to send a “Reassurance Force” to Ukraine by air, land, or sea. He did not disclose which nations would participate.
Putin warned that “any foreign troops entering Ukraine illegally will be considered legitimate targets.” He said such a move would only complicate the conflict further. Last month’s talks in Alaska between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump had raised hopes for a peace agreement.
However, Putin said an immediate deal was unlikely. While willing to engage with Ukrainian leaders, he argued that agreement on core issues remained impossible. At the same time, Trump shared images of a trilateral meeting between India, Russia, and China, claiming the three nations were drawing closer.
European Coalition, Ukraine and U.S. Response
European countries, under the “Coalition of the Willing,” are preparing to send security forces to Ukraine once a ceasefire begins. The plan includes strengthening Ukraine’s army and conducting border patrols. Macron stressed that the force would not fight Russia directly but would act to deter any major new offensive.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the Paris summit outcome as “a concrete step toward ending the war.” He said thousands of foreign troops could be deployed, though details would come later.
The United States has yet to define its role. Macron said Washington’s position would be clarified within days. Trump has indicated that U.S. support may focus mainly on air defense. Putin and Trump are expected to meet again soon. Both leaders described their discussions as “open and constructive.”
