Western Allies Meet in Paris to Discuss Ukraine Security Guarantees Amid Divisions

European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, convened in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Germany plans to propose strengthening Ukraine's air defenses as part of future security guarantees, while the coalition of willing countries is divided on deploying troops to Ukraine, with Britain ready to do so, Italy opposed, and Germany undecided. The coalition seeks explicit military backing from U.S. President Donald Trump, whose commitment remains uncertain, complicating efforts to provide credible security assurances. Macron emphasized Europe's readiness to protect Ukraine, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expects clarity soon on the security guarantees Europe can offer following the war. Despite months of talks, European leaders face skepticism and internal political challenges, highlighting the need to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities amid unpredictable geopolitical developments. The discussions underscore the precarious situation of European countries balancing troop deployment risks with the necessity of a strong security framework for postwar Ukraine.