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Some members of the “coalition of the willing” have privately acknowledged that plans to deploy peacekeeping or deterrent forces in Ukraine could hinge on the stance of Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
The Telegraph reports, citing diplomatic and military sources, that the Anglo-French plan to enforce any ceasefire could collapse at the Kremlin’s whim. Sources suggest that without Russia’s consent, any European troops might be declared “legitimate targets” by Moscow.
“One source noted, ‘If Russia says it does not agree and considers these troops a target, a different type of force would need to be sent. So Kremlin approval or rejection carries enormous weight,’” the report adds.
A diplomat told journalists that European governments have effectively given Putin veto power over coalition plans by seeking his input at the negotiating table. An official from one European defense sector described the potential troop deployment as “highly hypothetical,” given Russia’s long-standing opposition to NATO forces in Ukraine.
Concerns were heightened after Russian foreign intelligence accused the UK and France of preparing to send nuclear weapons to Kyiv.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the country would prefer foreign troops closer to the front lines, noting that “presence in Lviv is not needed.”
Earlier in January, Ukraine, France, and the UK signed a Declaration of Intent to deploy “coalition of the willing” forces after the war. The Times reported that Paris and London could each send 7,500 troops—15,000 peacekeepers in total—still far below initial expectations. Zelensky also noted that the U.S. offered 15-year security guarantees, but Kyiv seeks assurances for 20–50 years.
