Details of the "Coalition of the Willing" meeting in Paris have become known
More than twenty countries from over 30 participating states proposed specifics – this Radio Liberty learned from several informed sources within diplomatic circles of EU countries.
Diplomats, speaking anonymously, revealed that discussions have been intensifying in recent weeks. Ten out of 21 countries willing to work on Ukraine's security guarantees agree to send their soldiers to its territory once hostilities are over.
Among the countries willing to take such a step are the United Kingdom and France, leading the "Coalition of the Willing," as well as the Nordic countries and the Baltic states, the Netherlands, Australia. Germany, according to Radio Liberty sources, is still considering what position to take, mainly due to the need to obtain parliamentary approval for participation in the mission. German leadership is uncertain about the outcome. Poland is also not ready to send its soldiers to Ukraine; instead, diplomats said, it could become a logistical hub for Western deterrence forces.
So far, according to sources familiar with the proceedings of the meeting, it remains unclear how the United States will support the security guarantees. Preliminary options include intelligence capabilities and air cover for the mission.
Turkey will play a leading role in guaranteeing Ukraine's maritime security, while the United Kingdom and France will be responsible for land security. A multinational contingent will ensure air security. According to preliminary estimates, the European mission in Ukraine will consist of 25,000-30,000 soldiers – these figures are cited by Radio Liberty sources, but they warn that this could still change.
"Positively surprised by the advanced nature of military planning and the promises regarding troops that the UK and France have secured for support forces, air patrols, and mine-clearing naval missions. There are specific calculations of the number of troops already available, but everyone says it depends on the peace agreement, the role of the US, and, in many cases, parliamentary approval," noted one of the sources.
The final function of Western troops in Ukraine has not yet been agreed upon: it may be only a training mission stationed in large cities in the center and west of the country.
Diplomats, who spoke with Radio Liberty on condition of anonymity, noted that a big question mark remains regarding the reaction of European military forces to a possible provocation by Russia. How they will act if they come under fire is currently unclear.
