On Thursday, September 4, leaders of the “Voluntary Alliance” from multiple countries held a summit with Ukrainian President Zelensky to discuss security mechanisms for Ukraine following the Russia-Ukraine ceasefire.
The summit brought together approximately 30 representatives from European countries, Australia, Canada, and others, conducted in a hybrid format both physically and online.
For months, leaders of the “Voluntary Alliance” have engaged in multilevel negotiations in hopes of solidifying military support plans for Ukraine to prevent another Russian invasion following the ceasefire agreement.
Leaders of the “Voluntary Alliance,” including UK Prime Minister Stammer and French President Macron, unanimously agreed that any proposal for European security forces stationed in Ukraine would require the support of the United States.
However, US President Trump has yet to clearly commit to what security assurances Washington will provide.
On Wednesday, French President Macron and Zelensky jointly announced in Paris that alliance leaders would approve security assurance plans drafted by respective countries’ military on Thursday.
According to two European officials, a specific “technical” plan has been finalized, but details have not been disclosed.
Macron emphasized, “We Europeans are ready to provide security assurances to Ukraine. This allows us to firmly declare: we are prepared to achieve lasting peace between Ukraine and Europe, but the key at this stage lies in the sincerity of Russia.”
Two European officials indicated that Macron was attempting to send a political signal to US President Trump. Since last month’s summit between Trump and Russian President Putin, direct peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have not made substantial progress. He urged Trump to immediately exert pressure on Moscow.
Putin warned Kiev on Wednesday that if Ukraine makes a “sensible choice,” there is still a chance to end the war through negotiations, calling it the preferred option, but he is also prepared to use force to end the conflict if necessary.
Western officials highlighted that a core element of Ukraine’s security assurance is to continue strong support for the Ukrainian armed forces. However, it is expected that the mechanism will also include support from international forces to provide security assistance and protection for Ukraine and neighboring countries.
According to two diplomatic sources, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Paris on Thursday. The French Presidency stated that some leaders would call Trump after the summit.
NATO Secretary-General Rutte stated on Wednesday that he anticipates clarifying which security measures can be implemented soon. Rutte mentioned during a press conference, “This means that we can engage in more in-depth discussions with allies like the US to understand what assurances they hope to provide in terms of security assistance.”
(This article was adapted from Reuters.)