Europe Ready Lead Security Guarantees for Ukraine, NATO Chief Mark Rutte Says

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte declared that Europe is ready to take the lead in providing security guarantees for Ukraine following an “emergency summit” in Paris, he wrote on February 17.

Summarizing his meeting with European leaders in the French capital, Rutte emphasized that “Europe is ready and willing to strengthen itself, take the initiative, and provide security guarantees for Ukraine.”

He described this stance as his main takeaway from the summit in Paris, reinforcing the message that “Europe is ready and willing to step up. To lead in ensuring Ukraine’s security. We are prepared to invest much more in our security.”

While acknowledging that further details still need to be determined, Rutte made it clear that “the commitment is firm.”

Earlier, reports emerged that European leaders considered deploying troops to Ukraine as part of a potential ceasefire agreement. At the same time, they are consulting with the Trump administration on possible US support for such a mission.

Current proposals include sending a European deterrence force of 25,000 to 30,000 troops. These troops would not be stationed on the front lines but would serve as a visible presence to discourage further Russian aggression. If necessary, these forces could be reinforced.