Coalition of the Willing: Global Leaders Gather to Discuss Security Guarantees for Ukraine

On September 4, 2025, France will host a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing," comprising around 30 countries, to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine and to condemn Russia's ongoing refusal to engage in peace negotiations. The meeting, co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, follows prior consultations between U.S. and European leaders in Washington on August 18. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to participate, while U.S. President Donald Trump is not anticipated to attend.

WIONThe Straits TimesThe coalition is willing to negotiate in Paris: The main topic is security guarantees for Ukraine - News Room USAMacron on Coalition of the Willing meeting: We’ll also review Russia’s stance, which continues to reject peaceReutersParis to host ‘coalition of the willing’ talks on Ukraine security guarantees this Thursday

The primary focus of the meeting is to review recent military planning and assess the implications of Russia's persistent aggression. Macron emphasized the need for "robust security guarantees for Ukraine," which he described as essential for credible progress toward peace. The coalition aims to define military contributions that could deter future Russian aggression once a truce is established. Discussions will also include the potential creation of a "reassurance force" to outline the roles of participating countries in supporting Ukraine.

WION

The Coalition of the Willing was initiated by France and Britain in February 2025, aiming to coordinate military options to support Ukraine. However, efforts have stalled due to the necessity for U.S. backing for any European military involvement. Despite Trump's previous openness to U.S. military support in August, there has been little indication of concrete commitments from his administration.

The Straits Times

Some critics argue that the coalition's reliance on U.S. support may hinder European nations from taking decisive action. The lack of direct communication between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky since their last meeting in August has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the coalition's diplomatic efforts.

WION

In a statement prior to the meeting, Macron reiterated the coalition's commitment to supporting Ukraine and addressing Russia's refusal to negotiate. Zelensky expressed gratitude for Macron's "steadfast support" and emphasized the need for a strong response to Russia's actions, stating, "Russia has stolen from peace, brazenly taking away a significant part of this year."

The Straits TimesWIONReutersThe coalition is willing to negotiate in Paris: The main topic is security guarantees for Ukraine - News Room USAMacron on Coalition of the Willing meeting: We’ll also review Russia’s stance, which continues to reject peaceParis to host ‘coalition of the willing’ talks on Ukraine security guarantees this Thursday

Following the meeting, Washington is expected to receive a briefing on the discussions and outcomes. The coalition aims to narrow down options for military support and establish timelines for future actions, although no final decisions are anticipated during this session.

Paris to host ‘coalition of the willing’ talks on Ukraine security guarantees this Thursday

• “Together with our partners, and in coordination with NATO, we will work to define robust security guarantees for Ukraine.” — Emmanuel Macron, President of France

Macron on Coalition of the Willing meeting: We’ll also review Russia’s stance, which continues to reject peace

• “Russia has stolen from peace, brazenly taking away a significant part of this year,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

Reuters

This meeting represents a critical step in the ongoing international effort to support Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, highlighting the complexities of global diplomacy in addressing security concerns.

WION