In a significant development at the Paris summit attended by over 30 allied nations, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a groundbreaking military cooperation agreement with France regarding future operations in Ukraine. The declaration of intent outlines plans for joint military deployment contingent upon the establishment of a ceasefire and peace agreement with Russia.
The strategic arrangement involves establishing multinational military hubs throughout Ukrainian territory and constructing protected facilities for weapons and military equipment storage. These installations are designed to address Ukraine’s ongoing defensive requirements during the post-conflict transition period. The initiative represents a concrete step toward providing sustained security assistance to Kyiv beyond immediate combat operations.
Senior US negotiator Steve Witkoff emphasized the critical importance of this development, stating that “durable security guarantees and robust prosperity commitments are essential to a lasting peace” in Ukraine. This position aligns with Ukraine’s consistent demands for international security assurances against future aggression.
The announcement comes amid continued Russian warnings that any foreign military presence in Ukraine would be treated as “legitimate targets.” Moscow’s stance remains unchanged since President Vladimir Putin initiated the full-scale invasion in February 2022, which has resulted in Russia controlling approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. The Franco-British agreement signals Western resolve to maintain long-term strategic engagement in Eastern European security architecture regardless of Russian objections.