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Macron Asserts Russia Has No Authority Over Troop Deployment in Ukraine
French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that the decision regarding the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine lies solely with Ukraine, dismissing Russia’s influence over such matters aimed at ensuring a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
Nations including France, Britain, and Turkey, among other NATO allies, are considering contributing to a peacekeeping mission intended to stabilize Ukraine following the turmoil of war.
“Should Ukraine request allied forces to be present on its land, it is not within Russia’s purview to accept or deny that,” Mr. Macron stated while addressing the media ahead of a renewed phase of aerial combat between Russian and Ukrainian forces.
Historically, Moscow has consistently opposed the notion of NATO forces stationed in Ukraine, characterizing such deployments as escalating the conflict to a dangerous degree.
Mr. Macron elaborated that any potential peacekeeping force could comprise “a few thousand troops from various nations,” strategically placed at critical points throughout Ukraine. He noted interest from numerous countries across Europe and beyond in joining this effort.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated his country’s readiness to send troops if asked, with Canada also signaling a willingness to consider such contributions.
Nonetheless, the specifics concerning the deployment of these forces remain vague as military leaders from involved nations continue discussions.
Finland’s President Alexander Stubb conveyed that any firm commitments for troop contributions would hinge on the establishment of a comprehensive operational plan.
“There are numerous ways to provide support, ranging from deploying boots on the ground to offering intelligence assistance, but it is premature to make definitive commitments right now,” he remarked.
In a bid to unify military support for Ukraine, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer hosted a virtual meeting with a coalition of 26 countries, aligning efforts to enhance defensive capabilities.
The Prime Minister disclosed plans for a meeting involving military chiefs from Western nations in London, focusing on advancing preparations for peacekeeping initiatives that have now entered an “operational phase.”
Sir Keir reiterated Britain’s commitment to taking a proactive stance, stating a readiness to position troops and aircraft. However, sources indicate that a formal consensus among allies regarding troop deployment in Ukraine has yet to be achieved.
Continued Hostilities on the Frontlines
On the frontlines, Russian forces continue their advance, regaining territory in the Kursk region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued warnings that Russia is gearing up for a renewed incursion in the northeast of Ukraine.
Zelensky stated that Russian troops are amassing near Ukraine’s Sumy region, which abuts Kursk, heightening fears of fresh offensives.
A new escalation would complicate U.S. efforts to broker a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, a proposal that has garnered Ukrainian acceptance but has been met with skepticism by the Kremlin.
Earlier statements from Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested a conditional acceptance of the ceasefire initiated by Washington, while he asserted that “serious questions” remain and that military actions would persist until specific conditions are met.
Zelensky cautioned that partners must grasp the underlying strategies that Putin is employing, alleging that the Russian leader aims to postpone a ceasefire to enhance the strategic position of his troops.
He further advised, “The accumulation of Russian military forces signifies that Moscow seeks to disregard diplomatic avenues. It is evident that Russia is intent on prolonging the conflict.”
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