Paris January 7 2026 (Agencies) – The United Kingdom and France have outlined detailed plans for military involvement in Ukraine following any future ceasefire with Russia, including the potential deployment of troops, long-term defence assistance and binding security commitments, under a declaration agreed in Paris.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the agreement, signed with France and supported by other members of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, establishes a clear framework for British, French and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian territory once a credible cessation of hostilities is in place. He said the declaration moves beyond political intent by setting out concrete military, intelligence and logistical measures aimed at supporting a durable peace.
A central pillar of the plan is participation in a continuous ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism led by the United States. Coalition members would contribute to a permanent monitoring system and take part in a Special Commission responsible for investigating violations, attributing responsibility and recommending corrective action. US officials said security protocols linked to the mechanism are largely finalized.
The declaration also commits coalition members to sustained long-term support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which leaders said would remain the country’s primary line of defence and deterrence even after a ceasefire. This support is expected to include continued weapons deliveries, long-term defence funding packages, cooperation on Ukraine’s national defence budget, access to defence depots capable of rapid reinforcement and assistance in constructing defensive fortifications.
A key feature of the agreement is the creation of a Multinational Force for Ukraine, made up of contributions from willing states. The force would be deployed at Ukraine’s request once hostilities cease, with coordinated planning already conducted for reassurance operations in the air, at sea and on land. The declaration states that the force would be European-led, with participation from non-European partners and proposed backing from the United States.
In addition, the UK, France and their partners agreed to finalize binding commitments to assist Ukraine in the event of any future Russian attack. These commitments could include the use of military capabilities, intelligence sharing, logistical support, diplomatic measures and the imposition of additional sanctions, with the stated aim of rapidly restoring peace and security if deterrence fails.
The agreement also sets out plans to deepen long-term defence cooperation with Ukraine through expanded training programmes, closer intelligence cooperation and defence industrial collaboration. This is expected to include joint production initiatives supported by European defence instruments to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to sustain its armed forces over time.
Speaking after the talks, Starmer described the declaration as a vital step toward achieving a peace that can endure, while acknowledging that significant challenges remain. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the agreement as a major advance but said meaningful security guarantees would only be fully realized once the war has ended.