The United Kingdom and France have taken a significant step towards formalising a post-war security presence in Ukraine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have signed a declaration of intent to deploy troops in Ukraine in the event of a peace agreement with Russia.
The move signals a shift from abstract security assurances to concrete military planning, even if conditional on a ceasefire. It also reflects growing European determination to anchor Ukraine’s future security inside a Western framework.
From Political Support to Physical Presence
According to a statement released by the UK Prime Minister’s office, the document outlines an intention to deploy a multinational force for Ukraine once a peace agreement is in place. The force would act as a security backstop, reinforcing Ukraine’s security guarantees while supporting the restoration and reform of Ukraine’s own armed forces.
“This is an important part of our steadfast determination to support Ukraine in the long term,” the declaration states. The phrasing is careful, but the implication is clear. London and Paris are gearing up to act not as traditional peacekeepers but as guarantors of a fragile post-war settlement.
The declaration also lays the groundwork for a legal framework allowing British and French forces to operate on Ukrainian territory, particularly in securing airspace and maritime zones.
How Would the Force Operate?
Beyond symbolism, the document offers glimpses of operational planning. After a ceasefire, the UK and France intend to establish military hubs across Ukraine. These hubs would support troop deployment, logistics, and the construction of secure facilities for storing weapons and military equipment.
A dedicated coordination centre will also be created, designed to manage deployments and integrate Ukrainian, European, and allied efforts. This reflects lessons learnt from earlier phases of the war, where coordination gaps often slowed assistance.
The aim is deterrence. A visible, multinational presence would raise the political and military cost of renewed aggression.
The Role of the United States
While the declaration is European-led, the United States remains central. A draft text from the meeting of the so-called “coalition of the determined” states that Washington must commit to supporting European forces if Ukraine comes under attack again.
The coalition will establish a special coordination centre at its operational headquarters in Paris within the US-Ukraine-Coalition of the Resolute framework. This body would supervise the execution of security assurances and serve as a crucial strategic hub.
The message is subtle but firm. Europe is willing to lead but not to stand alone.
Poland’s Logistics Role
European leaders are keen to present this as a shared effort rather than a Franco-British project. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that national strengths are dividing coalition responsibilities.
He stated that Poland will assume the lead in logistics. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that coalition responsibilities are being divided according to national strengths. Other countries are expected to assume leadership in training, reconstruction support, and institutional reform.
This division of labour suggests a long-term European security architecture built around Ukraine, not merely a temporary stabilisation mission.
Strategic Meaning Beyond the Headlines
This declaration matters less for what it deploys today, nothing, and more for what it normalises. Western troops in Ukraine, once unthinkable, are now being openly planned for under specific conditions.
For Kyiv, this strengthens leverage in negotiations by tying peace to enforceable guarantees. For Moscow, it redefines boundaries that previously seemed inflexible. And for Europe, it represents a step towards strategic responsibility that goes beyond statements and sanctions.
Whether the plan ever activates will depend on a peace agreement that still feels distant. But the signal is unmistakable. If peace comes, it will not be undefended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Britain and France sign with Ukraine?
The sign was a declaration of intent to deploy troops in Ukraine following a peace agreement.
Will troops be deployed immediately?
No, deployment is conditional on a ceasefire and peace deal.
What is the Multinational Force for Ukraine?
The Multinational Force for Ukraine is a proposed security force designed to support Ukraine’s stability and security guarantees.
Does the US support this plan?
The declaration anticipates US support for European forces in the event of an attack on Ukraine.
What role will Poland play?
Poland will lead coalition logistics for assistance to Ukraine.
