French President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed that Ukraine’s sovereignty grants it the right to request foreign military presence on its territory, declaring that Russia does not have the authority to approve or block such deployments.
In an interview with Le Parisien published on March 16, Macron emphasized that Ukraine can invite allied forces for peacekeeping and training purposes under any future agreement—without external vetoes.
“If Ukraine requests allied forces to be present on its territory, it is not Russia’s decision to accept or reject them,” Macron stated.
The Franco-British plan, currently under development, outlines a limited peacekeeping presence in Ukraine, with troops stationed in strategic cities like Kyiv, Odesa, and Lviv.
Macron said the mission is not intended as a large-scale NATO deployment but would involve several thousand troops per nation, primarily for training and support roles.
Macron confirmed that multiple countries have already expressed interest in joining the initiative, which aims to demonstrate long-term European security guarantees for Ukraine.
Security Guarantees and Fighter Jet Transfers
Macron also reiterated four key security commitments France is advocating for Ukraine:
Continued military aid
Support for developing Ukrainian defense capabilities
Deployment of foreign contingents under a voluntary coalition
Enhanced European defense coordination
He also addressed discussions around transferring Mirage fighter jets, suggesting that third-party countries operating these aircraft may support further deliveries to Ukraine.
Diplomatic Push vs. Moscow’s Stance
Macron praised recent diplomatic alignment between Ukraine and the United States, especially during recent talks in Saudi Arabia, which he said had “increased trust.”
However, he sharply criticized Moscow’s continued refusal to engage in meaningful ceasefire discussions, saying it signals Russia’s intent to resume military offensives.
“When Russia says that if we agree to a ceasefire, it will be a respite for the Ukrainian army, it is very clearly saying that it wants to return and move further,” Macron said.
