UK and France Discuss Potential Strikes on Russian Military Targets as Part Ukraine Security Plan

Representatives from over 30 countries gathered in Paris to discuss the formation of an international force aimed at deterring future Russian aggression following a ceasefire in Ukraine. The meeting, led by the United Kingdom and France, focused on establishing a security framework that could include military responses in the event of a ceasefire violation.

According to Associated Press, one of the key proposals under discussion involves deploying peacekeeping forces equipped with heavy weaponry and stockpiles of arms that could be mobilized within hours or days.

The plan, backed by London and Paris, includes the possibility of “direct and immediate strikes on Russian assets” should Russia fail to adhere to the terms of a ceasefire agreement.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who attended the talks, emphasized that the discussions were taking place in “close coordination” with NATO, although the United States was notably absent from the meeting. Officials from NATO member states, Commonwealth nations, Japan, and South Korea were invited to contribute to the initiative by offering troops, weaponry, or other forms of assistance.

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War in Ukraine

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A French defense official stated that the envisioned force would be positioned at strategic locations, such as nuclear power plants, while remote monitoring of the front line would rely on drone technology and other surveillance measures.

Allied air forces, including those of the United States operating from outside Ukraine, could be placed on standby to respond to potential violations of airspace. Additionally, naval forces may play a role in securing Black Sea trade routes and conducting mine clearance operations.

The proposal is part of a broader strategy to ensure the stability of any future ceasefire agreement. Some Western officials indicated that an initial phase of the plan could involve a temporary freeze in hostilities for one month, allowing for confidence-building measures.

While welcoming the discussions, Ukrainian officials expressed the need for clearly defined security guarantees. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that foreign troops alone would not be sufficient and that military assistance from Europe and the United States would be required to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities. A senior Ukrainian official noted that while discussions have advanced, a definitive security framework has yet to be established.

Earlier, military representatives from over 30 countries gathered in Paris to discuss forming international security forces for Ukraine, aiming to deter potential Russian aggression in case of a ceasefire. The initiative, led by the UK and France, includes participants from Asia and Oceania.