Discussions on sending troops to Ukraine resume in Europe - Le Monde

According to the agency's sources, discussions about sending Western troops and private defense companies to Ukraine have now intensified again. The details of the debate on this issue are classified, but they have intensified after Trump's election victory.

Le Monde notes that the first initiative was made by French President Emmanuel Macron back in February. At that time, it provoked strong opposition from some European countries, led by Germany. At the same time, this scenario was not buried.

The agency adds that, based on their information, the initiative had been revived in recent weeks, particularly following British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to France during the November 11 celebrations.

A military source said that London and Paris are holding talks on defense cooperation, in particular, to create a solid core of allies in Europe, with a focus on Ukraine and European security.

Le Monde also notes that last week, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, in an interview with the BBC, called on Western partners not to set or express red lines in their support for Ukraine. At the same time, answering the question about the possibility of sending Western troops to the country, he said they do not rule out any option.

Sending Western troops to Ukraine

As mentioned above, Macron had previously admitted the possibility of sending NATO troops to help Ukraine, which sparked a wide discussion among the allies.

Subsequently, the French side clarified that it was not about participation in combat operations, but about other forms of support, including training missions. At the same time, some countries, such as Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Canada, expressed their willingness to discuss options for such assistance.