As the war in Ukraine enters its fourth year, European leaders are struggling to secure lasting peace. French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a “reassurance force” to back any potential peace deal. However, European allies remain divided on the proposal. While France and the UK are leading the initiative, the British Prime Minister acknowledges that U.S. involvement is crucial for success.
Macron’s “Reassurance Force” Plan
French President Emmanuel Macron has outlined a plan for a “reassurance force” in Ukraine. This force would support any future peace deal and deter further Russian aggression. Macron admitted that not all European nations support the idea. However, France and the UK are pushing forward with it.
Divisions Among European Allies
At a news conference after the third summit of the “coalition of the willing” in Paris, Macron said the deployment of an armed force isn’t unanimously supported. Only some European countries have committed to participating. But Macron believes they don’t need full support to move forward with the plan.
UK and France Take the Lead
The UK and France are leading the initiative. They plan to work closely with Ukrainian officials to decide where the forces should be deployed. British Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who attended the summit, said the force is meant to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin and protect any peace deal.
U.S. Involvement Uncertain
Although the UK and France are backing the initiative, U.S. involvement is uncertain. Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that U.S. support is crucial for the peace process. However, Macron suggested that European countries might have to proceed without the U.S. if necessary.
Ukrainian Reaction
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted positively to the summit. He expressed hope that the international coalition would offer security guarantees for Ukraine. Zelenskyy said several countries are willing to contribute military assets to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The Role of NATO and the EU
The summit, attended by NATO and EU leaders, is crucial for planning next steps in Ukraine. While details about troop contributions are still unclear, 200 military planners from 30 nations are involved in strategizing the force’s deployment.
The Path to Peace
The international community is eager for peace. U.S. efforts, including agreements to safeguard shipping routes in the Black Sea and halt long-range strikes, have made progress. However, both sides accuse each other of violating the agreements.
The “reassurance force” proposal is vital for achieving a lasting peace in Ukraine. While some European allies are hesitant, France and the UK continue pushing for the initiative. The involvement of the U.S. remains uncertain, but the effort to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and deter further aggression is ongoing.
