In a renewed display of European unity and strategic cooperation, the defence chiefs of Britain and France convened once again in London to advance discussions on providing long-term security guarantees for Ukraine.
The talks are part of an ongoing diplomatic and military initiative to form a multinational alliance prepared to uphold peace and stability in Eastern Europe, should a ceasefire be agreed in the ongoing war with Russia.
The meeting, reported by Agence France-Presse and cited by BTA, marks the third of its kind since British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron launched efforts to establish what has been termed a “coalition of the willing”.
This coalition, backed by over 30 interested nations, aims to deter Moscow from violating any future ceasefire agreements and to offer Ukraine concrete post-war support.
A Strategic Franco-British Partnership to Anchor European Security
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, underscored the significance of the partnership between Britain and France—Europe’s only two nuclear-armed nations—in leading a collaborative defence vision for the continent.
“Europe’s two nuclear powers are making additional efforts to build a stronger and deeper partnership that would play a fundamental role in the security of the continent,” said Admiral Radakin following the meeting.
The discussions, he noted, were not only focused on ongoing military support for Ukraine but also on shaping a comprehensive security framework that would remain in place following any peace settlement.
“The talks we held today contribute to defining the shape of future military cooperation between the UK and France, as well as our joint efforts to support Ukraine through military assistance today and after any peace agreement,” Radakin added.
The sentiment reflects an emerging belief within Europe that greater regional responsibility is essential to deter future threats and reinforce stability—particularly in light of shifting geopolitical priorities among global powers.
Responding to Global Dynamics: Europe Steps Up as the US Engages Russia
The renewed drive by London and Paris comes as the United States, under President Donald Trump’s administration, has opened direct dialogue with Moscow aimed at finding a resolution to the war in Ukraine.
While the American position moves towards diplomacy, the UK and France are taking the lead in formulating a European-led response that ensures Ukraine is not left vulnerable in the aftermath of any potential ceasefire.
Officials from Keir Starmer’s office confirmed that the United States remains fully informed of all ongoing military and strategic planning discussions related to the initiative. This collaborative transparency reflects the continued importance of transatlantic coordination, even as European powers increase their role in defence leadership.
Coalition of the Willing: Over 30 Nations Poised to Back Ukraine’s Future Security
According to British government sources, more than 30 countries have already expressed willingness to engage—formally or informally—in the formation of the “coalition of the willing”.
This group is expected to offer a range of security commitments to Ukraine, providing not only deterrence but also practical military and logistical support should conflict re-emerge.
Though still in the planning phase, the coalition signals a shift towards long-term strategic thinking in Europe’s defence posture. The aim is to create a multi-nation alliance that can act decisively and independently, providing support without relying solely on US leadership.
This development reflects a growing consensus in Europe: that the continent must be capable of protecting its interests and partners, especially in moments of political uncertainty or international transition.
United for a secure future Unis pour un avenir sûr.
At the third annual UK-France Military Chiefs meeting, we reaffirm our commitment to achieving lasting peace in Ukraine as we enhance European defence.@Armees_Gouv pic.twitter.com/FfbEpBSEfH
— Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) March 24, 2025
A Defining Moment for European Defence Policy
As Europe’s geopolitical landscape evolves, the ongoing cooperation between Britain and France on Ukraine’s future signals a broader transformation in European defence strategy.
With both nuclear powers aligned in their commitment to Ukraine and a growing number of nations ready to join a common cause, the continent may be entering a new era of military cooperation and collective security.
The London talks mark a significant milestone in that journey, laying the groundwork for a coalition designed not just to end a war, but to secure peace for the years to come.
