French President Macron open to the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine
PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that the option of sending Western troops on the ground in Ukraine is not being ruled out in the future. This statement comes as the issue of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine enters its third year.
Macron made these comments during a meeting of 20 European heads of state and Western officials in Paris. He emphasized that “we will do everything needed so Russia cannot win the war.”
Although there is currently no consensus to officially endorse sending troops on the ground, Macron acknowledged that nothing can be ruled out in terms of dynamics.
Nations considering sending troops “strategically ambiguous”
Macron declined to provide specific details about which nations were considering sending troops, opting to maintain “strategic ambiguity.” The meeting in Paris included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish President Andrzej Duda, and the leaders of the Baltic nations.
Russia’s escalating aggression and the need for collective security
Macron previously called upon European leaders to provide unwavering support to Ukraine in the face of escalating Russian offensives. He highlighted Russia’s increased aggression and the possibility of future attacks on additional countries, including Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland.
NATO’s mission to strengthen defenses for the coming years
Estonia’s foreign minister recently stated that NATO has approximately three to four years to strengthen its defenses. This acknowledgment further highlights concerns about future Russian aggression and the need to solidify security measures.
Leaders gather in Paris to prevent Putin from expanding aggression
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a video speech, urged the gathered leaders to ensure that Russia’s aggression does not undermine the progress made and prevent the further expansion of aggression to other nations. The United States and the United Kingdom were represented at the conference by their respective top diplomats, James O’Brien and Foreign Secretary David Cameron.
Concerns over US aid and potential policy changes
European nations expressed worries that the United States may reduce support for Ukraine as aid becomes uncertain in Congress. Additionally, concerns were raised over potential policy changes if former U.S. President Donald Trump were to return to power.
France, Germany, and the UK commit to long-term bilateral agreements with Ukraine
Recently, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom signed 10-year bilateral agreements with Ukraine, demonstrating long-term backing and support as Kyiv strengthens ties with Western nations.
Stay updated on the war between Russia and Ukraine
For comprehensive coverage of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, follow the AP’s latest reports at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
