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 stated that the UK and France would establish military hubs across Ukraine and build protected facilities for weapons and military equipment to deter future invasions. 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 considered a legitimate target, but has not responded to the latest announcement. Since President Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, Moscow maintains control over about 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Starmer emphasized the significance of the declaration at a joint press conference, stating, This is a vital part of our commitment to stand with Ukraine for the long-term. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that allies have made considerable progress towards securing robust security guarantees for Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked on the talks' advancements, while highlighting that a full peace deal is dependent on resolving key territorial and security issues. As the situation develops, the implications for both military and diplomatic relations remain critical.