Paris: Representatives from 32 countries are set to participate in high-level talks in Paris, discussing the formation of an international peacekeeping force aimed at preventing future Russian aggression against Ukraine, French officials confirmed.
According to the Associated Press, a senior French military official, speaking anonymously , revealed details about the confidential plan, which will be a key topic of discussion during the Paris negotiations on Tuesday. The primary goal of the proposed peacekeeping force is to ensure stability in Ukraine, particularly in the event of a ceasefire, and to respond swiftly if hostilities resume.
France and the United Kingdom are leading efforts to establish this multinational force, which is described as a coalition of willing nations. The force is expected to be equipped with heavy weaponry and strategic resources, allowing it to deploy within hours or days if needed to support Ukraine’s defense.
Representatives from NATO’s 32 member states, along with a delegate from Canada, will attend the Paris meeting. However, Croatia and Montenegro have not confirmed their participation despite receiving invitations. Notably, the United States was not invited, as European nations aim to take primary responsibility for post-ceasefire security in Ukraine.
Non-NATO nations, including Cyprus, Austria, and Ireland, will also be represented at the discussions. Meanwhile, officials from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea will join the meeting virtually. Ukraine will be represented by a senior member of its National Security and Defense Council, alongside a high-ranking military official.
During the initial phase of the talks, British and French officials will outline the details of the proposed peacekeeping force to military representatives from the participating nations. The second phase will involve in-depth discussions on potential contributions, with countries expected to clarify their level of commitment. Final decisions will be made at the political level by national leaders.
