France Says Europe Awaits US Support for Ukraine Security Guarantees

European allies of Ukraine are prepared to contribute to security guarantees for Kyiv following any peace agreement with Russia, but are now waiting for tangible American backing, according to President Emmanuel Macron’s office on Tuesday.

Ahead of a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and allies in Paris on Thursday, an official from the Élysée Palace stated: “We are ready. Europeans are now hoping to also obtain the support of the Americans to guarantee Ukraine’s security.”

A coalition of approximately 30 countries, dubbed the Coalition of the Willing, intends to provide support to Ukraine’s military and, if a ceasefire is agreed, potentially deploy troops to deter future Russian aggression.

A French diplomatic source confirmed that French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot and his US counterpart Marco Rubio spoke by telephone on Tuesday. They reportedly:

• Stressed the existing cooperation within the Coalition of the Willing
• Agreed to continue diplomatic efforts to achieve a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war, ensuring measures for a lasting peace

An Élysée official added: “We now have enough contributions to be able to say to the Americans that we are ready to take our responsibilities as long as they take on theirs — meaning giving European partners a 'backstop’.”

The backstop could include:

• Intelligence sharing
• Logistical support
• Communications assistance

However, US President Donald Trump has ruled out American troops on the ground, limiting the nature of potential US support.

Trump has been attempting, so far unsuccessfully, to organise a summit between President Vladimir Putin and President Zelensky. He previously hosted Putin in Alaska last month.

On Tuesday, Trump expressed his frustration: “I am very disappointed in Putin for failing to move towards a peace deal on Ukraine.”

Despite this, the United States will have a representative at Thursday’s meeting, according to Macron’s office, though specific details were not disclosed.

Thursday’s Meeting

• Co-Chairs: President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
• Purpose: Coordinate European contributions to Ukraine security guarantees and engage with the US on support measures
• Expected Outcomes: Solidify European commitments and secure American backing for deterrence measures

Summary Table: Key Points

The upcoming meeting represents a critical step in coordinating European and American support for Ukraine while negotiating a lasting peace with Russia.