Military chiefs from 30 European and NATO nations are set to meet in Paris on Tuesday to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a negotiated truce with Russia. This high-level gathering reflects Europe’s urgent efforts to enhance its defense capabilities and reduce reliance on the United States, particularly as U.S. President Donald Trump reshapes transatlantic alliances.
More than three years since Russia invaded Ukraine, the geopolitical landscape remains volatile. Trump’s renewed communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have raised concerns in Kyiv and among European allies. His suspension of military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine has further intensified fears that Washington may seek to pressure Kyiv into accepting a settlement favoring Russia.
On the same day as the Paris meeting, Ukrainian officials were scheduled to propose an aerial and naval ceasefire with Russia during discussions with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, European leaders are rallying to form a “coalition of the willing” to ensure the enforcement of any future ceasefire in Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are at the forefront of these efforts. Macron, who is set to address the Paris meeting, has emphasized that any deployment of European troops in Ukraine would occur only after a peace deal is signed. He has also suggested the possibility of extending France’s nuclear deterrent to European partners.
Following Tuesday’s discussions, defense ministers from Europe’s five major military powers France, Britain, Germany, Italy, and Poland will convene in Paris on Wednesday to deliberate on the necessary rearmament of Europe and continued military support for Ukraine. Starmer is also scheduled to host virtual talks on Saturday with leaders of nations willing to support the ceasefire.
Turkey, with NATO’s second-largest army and strategic positioning along the Black Sea, is emerging as a key player in Europe’s security framework. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has backed Zelensky’s call for an aerial and naval truce, reinforcing Turkey’s role in shaping regional stability.
As Europe’s defense strategy evolves, the Paris meeting marks a significant step in defining the continent’s approach to securing Ukraine’s sovereignty and maintaining regional security.
