26 Nations Pledge Postwar Security Guarantees for Ukraine, Macron Announces

French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled a significant multinational commitment at a recent summit in Paris, revealing that twenty-six nations have pledged postwar security guarantees to Ukraine. These guarantees are envisioned to take the form of an international “reassurance force” comprising troops deployed on land, positions at sea, and aviation support ready to be deployed the day the conflict ends. The aim is to deter renewed aggression and fortify Ukraine’s stability once hostilities cease.
Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Élysée Palace, Macron emphasized the gravity of the commitment, describing it as the first “serious, very specific substance” of support envisioned to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty. While he initially indicated that all 26 countries would deploy forces directly into Ukraine, he later clarified that some would deliver alternative assurances such as training and equipping Kyiv’s military from abroad.
Notably, France and the United Kingdom both co-chairs of the “Coalition of the Willing” have indicated willingness to deploy troops, albeit with contingencies and a commitment to peacekeeping rather than combat. Germany and Italy remain more cautious: Germany stated its ultimate involvement hinges on clearer conditions, notably regarding U.S. engagement, while Italy ruled out troop deployment but offered to help with ceasefire monitoring and training conducted outside Ukraine.
A critical aspect of this orchestration centers on securing U.S. support. Macron, Zelenskyy, and other European leaders participated in a subsequent call with President Donald Trump, who expressed backing for the initiative in general terms, with specifics yet to be finalized. Trump has thus far ruled out sending ground troops, but American involvement in areas like air support and intelligence is being actively discussed.
The broader objective of the reassurance force is unmistakable: it is intended to signal unwavering international support for Ukraine, ensure post-conflict stability, and deter future Russian aggression. By planning now, the coalition aims to be operational the instant a peace agreement or ceasefire is in place.