France, Britain propose 'reassurance force' to Ukraine post-peace deal

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France and Britain are leading efforts to deploy a 'reassurance force' to Ukraine following a peace agreement with Russia, despite not having unanimous support from all European allies. He stated that this initiative, desired by Ukraine, would involve a Franco-British delegation heading to Ukraine to discuss the force's deployment and the future structure of the Ukrainian army. Macron clarified that this force would not act as peacekeepers or substitutes for the Ukrainian army but would serve as a deterrent against potential Russian aggression. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of this force in sending a strong message to Russia, reinforcing that sanctions against Russia should remain in place until peace is achieved. Both leaders, alongside other European officials, agreed that increased pressure through sanctions is essential to encourage Russia to negotiate. This initiative follows a summit in Paris with over two dozen allies discussing strategies to enhance Ukraine's military capabilities.