Several Western nations are reportedly reconsidering the possibility of deploying troops or private military contractors to Ukraine, according to a November 25 report by the French newspaper Le Monde, which cites anonymous sources.
This renewed debate has emerged as the potential presidency of Donald Trump looms, with his anticipated inauguration in January 2025 sparking concerns that U.S. support for Kyiv could diminish or cease altogether.
Le Monde notes that discussions about Western troop involvement were previously met with resistance, particularly in February when French President Emmanuel Macron broached the topic, prompting backlash from countries such as Germany.
These conversations have recently resurfaced, coinciding with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to France.
According to a British military source cited by the newspaper, ongoing negotiations between the UK and France include potential defense collaborations, such as forming a European allied rapid response force with a focus on Ukraine and continental security.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot recently emphasized that there are no limits to France's support for Ukraine. In an interview with BBC News, when asked if this could extend to combat involvement, Barrot stated that France is open to all possibilities.
"We will support Ukraine with unwavering intensity and for as long as it takes. This is not just about Ukraine’s security—it’s about ours as well. Every kilometer gained by the Russian military brings the threat one step closer to Europe," Barrot remarked.
Barrot also previously confirmed that Ukraine is permitted to use French-supplied long-range missiles against Russian targets if done in self-defense.
Meanwhile, Germany is reportedly preparing for potential conflict scenarios.
Leaked documents from November 20 detail "Operation Deutschland," a contingency plan that outlines Berlin’s readiness to support the deployment of up to 800,000 NATO troops, including U.S. forces, to Ukraine in response to escalating nuclear threats from Russia.
