Macron Hosts Ukraine and Allies to Strengthen Security Commitments
French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and senior leaders from key allied nations as diplomatic efforts intensify to secure long-term guarantees for Ukraine’s safety in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.
Leaders and top officials from more than 30 countries are attending the talks in Paris. The group, known as the Coalition of the Willing, includes United States peace mediators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of President Donald Trump. The meeting highlights growing international involvement in shaping a possible post-war security framework for Ukraine.
Ceasefire Talks Near Completion
President Zelensky recently met President Trump and stated that negotiations to end the war are approximately 90% complete. However, mediators have not yet presented the proposals to Moscow. Russia’s initial reactions suggest strong resistance, particularly on unresolved territorial issues.
The remaining 10% of the negotiations focuses on land concessions that Ukraine is under pressure to consider. Russia currently controls about 75% of the Donetsk region and nearly 99% of neighbouring Luhansk. Together, these territories form the industrial heartland of eastern Ukraine, known as the Donbas.
Russia Shows Little Willingness to Compromise
Since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has steadily advanced, albeit slowly, across eastern Ukraine. As a result, Moscow remains unwilling to compromise on its objective of fully controlling the Donbas region.
In addition, Russia continues to reject proposals for a temporary ceasefire. It has intensified attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly targeting power supplies during the harsh winter months. In response, Ukraine has increased drone strikes inside Russia, with a recent attack hitting an oil depot in the Lipetsk region.
Focus on Security Guarantees
Several prominent leaders are attending the Paris talks, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Participants aim to reach agreement on key security measures to support Ukraine after any peace deal.
These discussions include plans for a multi-national reassurance force, long-term military assistance, economic recovery support, and firm security guarantees in case Russia launches another attack.
For months, European allies have also pushed for a clear US commitment, often referred to as a “backstop.” This would involve Washington responding if Russia breaches the terms of a future peace agreement.
Following discussions in Florida last month, President Zelensky confirmed that the United States had offered 15 years of security guarantees. However, officials have yet to clarify when and how these guarantees would take effect.
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