Moscow has warned that any Western forces in the neighboring country will be treated as “legitimate targets,” a statement that underscores escalating tensions in the region.

During a meeting of the so-called ‘coalition of the willing’ group at Paris’s Elysee Palace on January 6, 2026, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron announced an agreement to deploy military forces in Ukraine contingent upon Kiev reaching a peace deal with Russia. This decision follows Moscow’s repeated denials that any NATO presence could be permitted under any circumstances.

The leaders signed a “Declaration of Intent” outlining plans for British and French forces to establish military hubs across Ukraine following a ceasefire, secure weapons and equipment, and participate in U.S.-led monitoring of the truce. Starmer described the agreement as “a vital part of our iron-cast commitment,” while Macron noted the proposed contingent would be a non-combat force stationed “a long way behind the contact line.”

However, neither Starmer nor Macron, nor Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy, specified troop numbers, deployment locations, or timelines. Zelenskiy claimed Ukraine had engaged in “very substantive discussions” with American officials regarding security guarantees and progress on draft documents.

Russia has consistently opposed foreign military presence in Ukraine, warning that any such forces would be treated as “legitimate targets.” The Kremlin also asserts that Ukraine’s ambition to join NATO and host allied troops is a key factor in the conflict.

Zelenskiy’s assertion of “very substantive discussions” with U.S. officials has been criticized by security analysts for its potential to heighten regional instability.