In a significant development that is reshaping the security landscape in Europe, a draft declaration from the Paris summit reveals that the United States is moving towards providing strategic support for a "multinational European force" dedicated to Ukraine. This move is part of the efforts of the "coalition of the willing," which includes key European allies of Kyiv, to establish a robust security framework that would ensure the sustainability of any potential ceasefire with Russia.
Details of the new security guarantees
According to a draft obtained by AFP, the coalition leaders, meeting at the Élysée Palace with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US envoys, are preparing to announce their commitment to providing “politically and legally binding guarantees.” These guarantees will not be mere verbal promises but will take effect immediately upon the ceasefire taking place. The proposed agreement stipulates that the United States and its coalition partners will play a vital and coordinated role in ensuring that Ukraine does not suffer a new security setback, with Washington assuming the task of “monitoring” the ceasefire with the active participation of coalition members.
Strategic context: Why now?
This move comes at a critical juncture in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, as the international community increasingly seeks a formula to guarantee Ukraine's security without necessarily triggering an immediate, direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. Historically, the primary obstacle in peace negotiations has been a lack of trust; Kyiv fears that Moscow will exploit any ceasefire to regroup and launch a new offensive. Therefore, the formation of a European force with American backing aims to bridge this gap, offering a practical alternative to immediate NATO membership—a model known in diplomatic circles as the "hedgehog model," or deterrence through close partnership.
International dimensions and impact of the decision
This approach carries profound implications at both the regional and international levels. At the European level, it reflects the continent's desire to assume greater responsibility for its own vital security, while maintaining the American umbrella as a last resort. Washington's commitment to supporting the force in the event of a Russian attack sends a strong deterrent message to Moscow: any violation of the ceasefire will be met with a coordinated international response, not merely diplomatic condemnations.
This declaration, if adopted in its final form, is expected to form the cornerstone of the new security architecture for Eastern Europe, potentially paving the way for more serious negotiations to end the war, based on a new balance of power that guarantees Ukraine's sovereignty and curbs Russian expansionist ambitions.
