Latest news Ukraine

AP: France to lead 30-nation talks on international security force for Ukraine

The proposed international force would maintain stockpiles of heavy weapons and deploy within hours to counter Russian aggression, signaling Europe’s pivot toward greater military self-reliance.

byOlena Mukhina

10/03/2025

2 minute read

The Eiffel Tower in Paris illuminated in colors of Ukrainian flag. Credit: First Channel News

AP: France to lead 30-nation talks on international security force for Ukraine

Military representatives from over 30 countries will participate in talks in Paris in March to discuss the formation of an international security force for Ukraine, AP reports, citing a French military official.

France has initiated a series of meetings to bolster support for Ukraine. This is driven by a strategic shift towards greater European autonomy in security matters after the US has paused its military aid to Kyiv. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizes that Europe must assert its strategic autonomy, particularly as US support becomes less reliable.

According to the official, the proposed force aims to deter Russia from launching a new offensive should a ceasefire take effect in Ukraine.

The discussions will also include countries from Asia and Oceania, which will join remotely, the official added.

He emphasized that the broad international participation underscores how extensively France and the UK—jointly working on plans for a peacekeeping force—are seeking to involve nations capable and willing to support Ukraine’s defense in the event of a ceasefire.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the French official stated that under the proposed plan, the international peacekeeping force could be equipped with heavy weaponry, maintain stockpiles of arms, and be deployed within hours or days to assist in Ukraine’s defense against a Russian attack.

Earlier, Macron warned that the US withdrawal from supporting Ukraine would have catastrophic consequences not only for Kyiv but also for global security. He claimed that without intervention, Russian President Vladimir Putin might advance to other states in Europe.

The French president also expressed concern about Trump’s apparent eagerness to reach a ceasefire with Putin. Macron argued that any peace agreement lacking security guarantees for Ukraine would severely undermine American global influence.

Related:

You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. A little bit goes a long way: for as little as the cost of one cup of coffee a month, you can help build bridges between Ukraine and the rest of the world, plus become a co-creator and vote for topics we should cover next. Become a patron or see other ways to support. Become a Patron!

To suggest a correction or clarification, write to us here

You can also highlight the text and press Ctrl + Enter

We are an independent media outlet that relies solely on advertising revenue to sustain itself. We do not endorse or promote any products or services for financial gain. Therefore, we kindly ask for your support by disabling your ad blocker. Your assistance helps us continue providing quality content. Thank you!