Zelensky States Absence of Clear Security Pledge from Allies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine's partners in Europe have not given him concrete pledges that they will defend Ukraine in the event of a future Russian attack.
"I continue to pose this critical question to every one of our allies and thus far, the answer remains elusive a definitive and straightforward response yet," he stated to the press on Wednesday.
His comments come a day after the UK and France inked a declaration of intent on stationing forces in Ukraine should a ceasefire agreement to conclude the conflict with Moscow is reached.
However, comprehensive defense assurances have not been agreed. The US, which has been leading efforts to halt the offensive, was reported to have abstained from signing such a commitment at discussions held in the French capital on the previous day.
Details of the Paris Talks
Following the negotiations in Paris, which involved some 30 countries that comprise the group termed the 'Coalition of the Willing', UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the two nations would "establish military hubs across Ukraine" to prevent any future incursion, while France's President Macron subsequently indicated thousands of troops may be deployed.
Allies proposed that the US would take the lead in monitoring a truce. But the key issue of territorial concessions that Ukraine is being asked to grant to Russia as a component of the settlement terms are still being discussed.
The Russian government has thus far remained silent on the announcement made in the city of Paris.
Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated a comprehensive military assault of Ukraine in February 2022, and Russian forces currently controls about one-fifth of Ukraine's land.
Zelensky's Shifting Tone
Sir Keir described the joint statement as "an essential component of our dedication to support Ukraine for the long-term".
He continued: "It paves the way for the juridical structure under which British, French and partner forces could operate on Ukrainian soil, securing Ukraine's skies and seas, and rebuilding Ukraine's armed forces for the future."
Zelensky hailed that agreement as a "huge step forward".
Twenty-four hours afterward, however, he appeared less optimistic.
"I see the will, the political will, and that the partners are ready, and the partners are ready to give us robust economic measures, strong security guarantees," he said when asked if European countries would come to Ukraine's aid.
"However, until we don't have such security guarantees - legally binding, supported by parliaments, backed by the U.S. Congress - this crucial issue cannot be answered. And should they materialize, you must ultimately depend primarily on your inherent capabilities."
Unresolved Issues and Ongoing Conflict
The Paris talks were also notable due to the attendance of envoys from former President Trump's administration, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
One envoy stated the participating countries "mostly completed" their work on agreeing security protocols.
Last week, the President indicated a settlement was "90% ready".
Questions of land and security guarantees have been at the forefront of outstanding matters for negotiators.
The Russian leader has consistently stated that Ukraine's military must withdraw from the entirety of the Donbas region or Russia will seize it, dismissing potential concessions over how to conclude hostilities.
Zelensky has so far ruled out ceding any territory, but has suggested that Ukraine could redeploy its forces to an agreed point - but provided that Russia did the same.
Moscow currently controls about three-quarters of the Donetsk region, and some 99% of the neighbouring Luhansk. The pair of oblasts form the Donbas industrial heartland.
Attacks have been escalating against Ukrainian cities - particularly targeting power facilities. Russia has also made incremental advances in capturing more Ukrainian territory.
Ukrainian forces have retaliated at Russian targets with unmanned aerial vehicles, though with varying degrees of effectiveness.
