Paris, January 09, 2026
Ukraine Security Pact Gains Momentum with Potential 800,000-Strong Force
A coalition of nations pledged robust security guarantees for Ukraine on Tuesday, including a potential multinational military force of 800,000 personnel, signaling a significant escalation in efforts to deter further Russian aggression.
- France hosted a summit bringing together European leaders and American envoys to solidify security commitments to Ukraine.
- Plans include a multinational force operating in the air, at sea, and on land to uphold any future peace agreement.
- The United States offered to lead a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, while Ukraine continues to appeal for more air defense systems.
- Germany indicated willingness to contribute troops to the multinational force, but not within Ukraine’s borders.
French President Emmanuel Macron described the security guarantees as a “significant step” that would prevent Ukraine from being compelled to surrender and ensure the longevity of any future peace accord. He spoke to reporters following a meeting with the so-called coalition of the willing-countries aligned with Ukraine-in Paris.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the summit clarified “details” regarding the operation of a European deterrence force in Ukraine after a potential ceasefire, and identified which nations would participate voluntarily. The envisioned force would operate across all domains-air, sea, and land-to guarantee the terms of any peace agreement. The United Kingdom and France are planning to establish military hubs within Ukraine to support these efforts.
Differing Levels of Commitment
While Italy stated it would not deploy troops on Ukrainian soil as part of the security guarantees, Germany signaled a potential contribution to the multinational force, albeit outside of Ukraine’s borders. The US agreed to spearhead a “ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism” with European partners should a peace deal be reached.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner affirmed their commitment to achieving peace, stating they were “prepared to do anything necessary to work with our European colleagues.” Witkoff added that former President donald Trump “fervently believes that the killing has to stop.”
Zelensky announced Ukraine intends to finalize agreements with the US “in the near future,” emphasizing these should be “guarantees based on legal commitments agreed by the US congress.” He also reiterated Ukraine’s urgent need for additional air defense systems to protect critical infrastructure and cities,which continue to be targeted by Moscow,and characterized Russia as “the source of this war.”
“Ukraine has never been an obstacle to peace,” Zelensky asserted.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed Zelensky’s sentiment, stating that while peace in Ukraine feels “closer than ever,” Russian president Vladimir Putin has yet to demonstrate a willingness to negotiate a resolution.
Ukrainian health facilities were reportedly hit in a Russian attack ahead of the Paris talks.
