Ukraine will engage in detailed discussions on Friday with a select group of foreign nations regarding their potential contribution to a security guarantee force for Ukraine, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. During a news conference with Germany's foreign minister, he expressed his anticipation for "more concrete" responses from allies about their willingness to participate in this initiative, which is staunchly opposed by Russia.
Zelenskiy announced that the upcoming meeting would involve military representatives from a few countries prepared to deploy a contingent in various capacities. He elaborated that this contingent would consist of land, air, and naval components.
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a desire to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia's large-scale invasion in 2022. Last week, Washington facilitated a temporary cessation of strikes on energy infrastructure by both nations.
The U.S. aims to achieve a full ceasefire leading to a lasting peace agreement, although significant progress seems elusive despite Trump's assurances for a swift resolution.
European allies of Kyiv have indicated their readiness to contribute troops to a force that would provide security guarantees and bolster Ukraine’s military in the long term under a ceasefire.
Zelenskiy characterized the upcoming meeting as an opportunity for in-depth discussions, following prior consultations, and anticipated that it would yield clarifications and specific details. He emphasized that the conversation would extend beyond the contingent, highlighting the importance of defining the future of the Ukrainian military.
A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that military leaders from the UK, France, and Ukraine would convene in the coming days to build on recent efforts to enhance Ukraine's security.
Additionally, Zelenskiy called upon the United States to intensify sanctions on Russia due to alleged violations of ceasefire agreements regarding energy infrastructure. He noted that U.S. officials had privately acknowledged witnessing Russian infringements during talks held in Saudi Arabia the previous week.
Russia has countered by accusing Ukraine of continuing assaults on energy facilities, a claim Kyiv has denied.
Since assuming office in January, Trump has rapidly shifted U.S. policy on the conflict, resuming direct engagement with Russia while exerting pressure on Ukraine, including a temporary reduction in arms and intelligence support.
This week, the U.S. proposed an expanded minerals agreement with Ukraine, demanding a significant portion of the nation's natural resource revenues for an extended period, as outlined in documents obtained. Zelenskiy, eager to maintain close ties with Washington and cautious in his public comments about the deal, mentioned that Ukrainian and American teams are currently collaborating on the draft. He noted that Ukraine would need to appoint a legal firm to assist in this effort, with a decision expected in the coming days.