Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Élysée Palace, Macron emphasized the gravity of the commitment, describing it as the first “serious, very specific substance” of support envisioned to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty. While he initially indicated that all 26 countries would deploy forces directly into Ukraine, he later clarified that some would deliver alternative assurances such as training and equipping Kyiv’s military from abroad.

Notably, France and the United Kingdom both co-chairs of the “Coalition of the Willing” have indicated willingness to deploy troops, albeit with contingencies and a commitment to peacekeeping rather than combat. Germany and Italy remain more cautious: Germany stated its ultimate involvement hinges on clearer conditions, notably regarding U.S. engagement, while Italy ruled out troop deployment but offered to help with ceasefire monitoring and training conducted outside Ukraine.

A critical aspect of this orchestration centers on securing U.S. support. Macron, Zelenskyy, and other European leaders participated in a subsequent call with President Donald Trump, who expressed backing for the initiative in general terms, with specifics yet to be finalized. Trump has thus far ruled out sending ground troops, but American involvement in areas like air support and intelligence is being actively discussed.

The broader objective of the reassurance force is unmistakable: it is intended to signal unwavering international support for Ukraine, ensure post-conflict stability, and deter future Russian aggression. By planning now, the coalition aims to be operational the instant a peace agreement or ceasefire is in place.

“Geneva would be a suitable venue for a ceasefire agreement,” Merz said at a news conference alongside Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter.

“The day after tomorrow, I will once again propose to the so-called ‘coalition of the willing’ that an invitation (to Geneva) be extended,” he added.

The “coalition of the willing,” formed by France and Britain, has been holding discussions for several months to define what military contributions countries could provide to Ukraine to prevent further attacks by Russia once a final truce is reached.

France will host a mostly virtual meeting on Thursday to review the latest efforts to offer Ukraine security support after a peace agreement and to condemn what Ukraine’s allies see as Moscow’s unwillingness to negotiate.