France Expects US to Provide Backup After Ukraine Ceasefire

As the conflict in Ukraine enters a critical phase, European leaders are exploring ways to ensure a lasting peace and prevent further Russian aggression. One proposal gaining traction is the deployment of a European-led security force to monitor a ceasefire and deter any breaches. France, a key proponent of this idea, is now looking to the United States for support in the form of a "U.S. backstop" to bolster the European force's effectiveness.

The European force, as envisioned by France and other allies, would consist of fewer than 30,000 troops stationed away from the front line at key infrastructure sites. This force would be backed by Western air and sea power, with air power based outside Ukraine to deter breaches and reopen Ukrainian airspace to commercial flights. The U.S. would play a crucial role in providing this air and sea power, as well as logistical support, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, and diplomatic backing.



The U.S. has already indicated its willingness to support the European force without directly deploying combat troops to the region. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stated that there will not be U.S. troops deployed to Ukraine, but American support such as air transport or logistics remains on the table. Additionally, Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump's Ukraine envoy, has suggested that all options must be kept on the table, as the shape of any force will depend on the outcome of peace negotiations.

France's President Emmanuel Macron has stressed the importance of a U.S. backstop, stating that a U.S. security guarantee is the only way to effectively deter Russia from attacking Ukraine again. This collaboration between the U.S. and Europe would help maintain a balance between European and U.S. contributions to the force's success, ensuring that the European force is robust and sustainable.

In conclusion, France expects the U.S. to provide a crucial backup to the European-led security force in Ukraine, with both sides collaborating to ensure the force's success without compromising U.S. interests. This partnership would help stabilize the situation in Ukraine, deter further Russian aggression, and contribute to a lasting peace.