Coalition of the Willing: Security Guarantees for Ukraine

On September 4, 2025, leaders from approximately 30 countries convened in Paris for a significant meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing," aimed at discussing security guarantees for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia. The meeting, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and representatives from nations such as Turkey, Australia, and Canada. The coalition's primary objective is to solidify military commitments that would bolster Ukraine's defenses in the event of a ceasefire with Russia.

Zelensky sure Ukraine will get security guaranteesCoalition of the Willing Meeting in Paris to Discuss Security Guarantees for UkraineDW NewsCoalition of the Willing meets to finalize robust security guarantees for UkraineReuters

The Coalition of the Willing was formed as a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the intent to provide a viable security framework that could substitute for NATO membership. Since its inception in March 2025, the coalition has faced challenges in defining concrete military contributions, primarily due to the necessity of U.S. backing for any European-led initiative. Recent discussions have focused on the potential deployment of troops to Ukraine, although this has sparked divisions among European allies, particularly in light of Russia's firm opposition to foreign military presence in Ukraine.

Coalition of the Willing Meeting in Paris to Discuss Security Guarantees for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed confidence in the coalition's ability to deliver security guarantees, stating, "I strongly believe in the Coalition of the Willing... the outcome of which... will be security guarantees for Ukraine." Macron echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the coalition's readiness to provide necessary security assurances. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted the urgency of finalizing military arrangements, stating, "I expect tomorrow or soon after tomorrow to have clarity on what collectively we can deliver."

Concrete security proposals for post-war Ukraine expected as Coalition of the Willing meets in Paris — Novaya Gazeta Europe

In the lead-up to the meeting, Macron indicated that the coalition had completed most technical work regarding security guarantees, awaiting confirmation of U.S. support. He noted, "We are willing and able, and we are ready," underscoring the coalition's commitment to Ukraine's security. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has been hesitant to commit to deploying American troops, instead suggesting that the U.S. could provide intelligence and air support.

Euronews

Despite the coalition's efforts, skepticism remains regarding the feasibility of its security guarantees. Critics point to the lack of concrete commitments from the U.S. and the ongoing Russian aggression as significant obstacles. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova dismissed the coalition's proposals, stating that any foreign military presence in Ukraine is "fundamentally unacceptable" and would undermine security.

Concrete security proposals for post-war Ukraine expected as Coalition of the Willing meets in Paris — Novaya Gazeta Europe

Following the Paris meeting, coalition leaders are expected to engage with Trump to clarify U.S. involvement in the proposed security guarantees. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact Ukraine's approach to future negotiations with Russia and the overall security dynamics in Europe.

Coalition of the Willing meets to finalize robust security guarantees for Ukraine

• “We are willing and able, and we are ready,” — French President Emmanuel Macron

Concrete security proposals for post-war Ukraine expected as Coalition of the Willing meets in Paris — Novaya Gazeta Europe

• “I expect tomorrow or soon after tomorrow to have clarity on what collectively we can deliver,” — NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte

Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty

• “The ideas of the Kyiv leader -- which are essentially a carbon copy of the initiatives of European sponsors -- are absolutely unacceptable,” — Maria Zakharova, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson

Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty

This meeting marks a critical juncture in the coalition's efforts to establish a robust security framework for Ukraine, as leaders navigate the complexities of international diplomacy and military commitments in the face of ongoing conflict.

Coalition of the Willing Meeting in Paris to Discuss Security Guarantees for Ukraine