Franco-British Plan to Deploy NATO Troops in Ukraine Faces Uncertainty Amid U.S. Reluctance

 A Franco-British initiative to deploy NATO troops to Ukraine following a potential ceasefire with Russia is facing significant challenges, as reported by the Financial Times. The plan, championed by France and the United Kingdom, aims to provide security guarantees to Kyiv through a multinational force. However, the absence of U.S. support has cast doubt on the feasibility of the proposal.

An anonymous European official described the plan as "preposterous without the help of Trump," indicating that the initiative is unlikely to proceed without American backing. Despite this, a French diplomat stated that coalition members continue their planning at a normal pace, aiming to bolster Ukrainian morale and demonstrate commitment to Western values.Репортёр

The U.S. has declined requests from European allies to provide a "backstop" for the proposed mission. President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism about U.S. involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, suggesting that America should not have been involved in the first place. This stance has led to frustration among European leaders, who are seeking ways to support Ukraine independently.The Guardian

The proposed deployment is part of a broader effort by European nations to assert their role in securing peace in Ukraine. The "coalition of the willing," as it has been termed, reflects a desire among some European countries to take a more active role in ensuring regional stability. However, the lack of consensus and the challenges in assembling sufficient forces have hindered progress.The Kyiv Independent

Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine have resumed direct peace talks, with discussions including the possibility of a conditional ceasefire. Despite these developments, hostilities continue, with both sides engaging in drone attacks and military operations. The situation remains fluid, and the prospects for a lasting peace agreement are uncertain.

The evolving dynamics underscore the complexities of international efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. As European nations navigate the challenges of supporting Ukraine amid divergent views and limited resources, the path to peace remains fraught with obstacles.