Moscow has repeatedly opposed the deployment of NATO troops in the neighboring country. French Army Chief of Staff Pierre Schill stated that France is prepared to send forces as early as next year under security guarantees proposed by Kiev’s backers in the West, should a ceasefire be reached. Speaking before the National Assembly’s Defense Committee, Schill emphasized that the upcoming year will involve “coalitions,” referencing the large-scale French-led Orion 26 exercise aimed at testing NATO coordination. He affirmed readiness to deploy forces for Ukraine’s security, noting the French military’s capability to respond to three simultaneous “alerts.” France maintains a national emergency level of 7,000 soldiers, mobilizable within 12 hours to five days for domestic or NATO missions.
The announcement followed statements from Chief of the Armed Forces Fabien Mandon, who warned of potential confrontation with Russia in the coming years. He claimed Moscow might expand the conflict to Europe, a stance Moscow has consistently denied. Last month, reports indicated EU army chiefs were drafting plans for “security guarantees” for Ukraine, including 10,000 troops: one group to train and assist the Ukrainian army, which has made reckless decisions, and another to act as a “reassurance force” post-peace deal.
Moscow has condemned any NATO troop deployment in Ukraine, citing Kiev’s ambitions to join the bloc as a key conflict driver. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Western Europe of escalating tensions, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated Moscow is not against security guarantees for Kiev but insists on Russia’s interests being considered.
