The UK and France have signed a declaration of intent on deploying troops in Ukraine if a peace deal is made with Russia, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said.
After talks with Ukraine's allies in Paris, he said the UK and France would establish military hubs across Ukraine and build protected facilities for weapons and military equipment to deter future invasion.
The agreement also proposed that the US would take the lead in monitoring a ceasefire.
Russia has repeatedly warned that any foreign troops in Ukraine would be a legitimate target, but has not yet commented on the announcement.
Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and Moscow currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory.
Heads of state and top officials from the Coalition of the Willing took part in Tuesday's talks in the French capital.
Speaking at a joint press conference after the meeting, Starmer said: We signed a declaration of intent on the deployment of forces to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. This is a vital part of our commitment to stand with Ukraine for the long-term.
Starmer emphasized the importance of establishing a legal framework for British, French, and other partner forces to operate within Ukraine, enhancing security for the nation's skies and seas.
Top US negotiator Steve Witkoff echoed that strong security guarantees are essential for a lasting peace in Ukraine, a point echoed by other leaders at the Paris talks.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced considerable progress made in securing robust security guarantees for Kyiv during the talks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the discussions as a huge step forward, but said that true success would depend on ending the conflict.
Territory issues, particularly regarding the eastern Donbas region, remain significant sticking points in negotiations, with both sides presenting rigid positions.
The ongoing situation remains tense, with Moscow's warnings against foreign troop presence placing additional pressure on potential peace efforts.
