Following the victory of Donald Trump in the 2024 United States presidential election, discussions about the deployment of Western military forces and private defence companies to Ukraine have resurfaced among European leaders. The deliberations, previously considered sensitive and largely off-limits, are reportedly back on the agenda due to the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Renewed Strategic Focus
According to Le Monde, which cites informed sources, the topic of deploying European ground forces to Ukraine has regained prominence in high-level discussions. French President Emmanuel Macron had broached the possibility earlier this year but faced significant opposition. However, Trump’s return to the White House has reignited conversations among European policymakers, suggesting a potential shift in strategy.
This issue was reportedly raised during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to France on 11 November. Discussions between the United Kingdom and France centred on defence collaboration, with both countries exploring the idea of leading a coalition to bolster Ukraine’s security. A British military source told Le Monde that talks are ongoing to create a “hard core of allies” in Europe, focusing on Ukraine and broader European security.
French Commitment
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot reaffirmed France’s unwavering support for Ukraine during a 23 November interview with the BBC. When asked whether this support could extend to the deployment of ground forces, Barrot stated, “We do not rule out any option.” He underscored the critical importance of Ukraine’s security for Europe, warning that every advance by Russian forces brings the threat closer to European borders.
Barrot’s remarks highlight a broader European consensus that Ukraine’s security is intricately linked to the continent’s own stability. “We will support Ukraine as intensely and for as long as necessary,” he declared, framing the war as a direct challenge to European security.
Conditions for Deployment
Eli Tenenbaum, a researcher at the French Institute of International Relations, told Le Monde that any European troop deployment to Ukraine would likely depend on specific conditions, such as a ceasefire agreement. He suggested that European forces could serve as security guarantors in conflict-affected areas, providing a stabilising presence in the event of reduced hostilities.
This perspective aligns with statements made by Rob Bauer, Chair of NATO’s Military Committee, who has previously noted that Western leaders might have already considered deploying troops to Ukraine were it not for the risk of nuclear escalation by Russia.
Challenges and Risks
The prospect of deploying European ground forces to Ukraine remains contentious. While such a move could bolster Ukraine’s defences and signal a robust commitment to European security, it also carries significant risks, including the potential for direct confrontation with Russia. Additionally, public opinion and political will across Europe vary widely, complicating the formation of a unified approach.
The discussions come at a time when Europe faces mounting pressure to redefine its role in global security. The changing political dynamics in the United States, coupled with the ongoing war in Ukraine, have highlighted the need for European nations to take greater responsibility for their defence strategies.
