Media estimate size of possible Western peacekeeping force in Ukraine
European peacekeepers to ensure security at sea, in air and on land (photo: Getty Images)
European countries are citing different figures for the size of a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine. Numbers of 15,000 and 20,000 are being mentioned, while some hope for as many as 30,000 peacekeepers, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported.
The publication notes that no military plans have yet been made public, but the bulk of the peacekeepers are expected to be sent by Britain and France. These countries would be responsible for the ground and air components.
At the same time, Türkiye has indicated that it plans to take responsibility for the security of transport routes in the Black Sea.
It remains unclear how far potential peacekeepers from the Coalition of the Willing would be stationed from the line of contact. Most EU officials told the publication they assume their troops would be deployed in western Ukraine to support and train the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to European officials speaking on condition of anonymity, US troops could also be present, but only to monitor compliance with a ceasefire.
Coalition of the Willing meeting
Representatives from 30 Coalition of the Willing countries will meet with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy to refine a peace agreement aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
On Tuesday, January 6, the meeting will also be attended by US President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
European officials told the publication they hope for a "synchronization of positions of the United States, Ukraine, and EU countries" following the Paris meeting.
French leader Emmanuel Macron expressed hope that "concrete commitments" on Ukraine's security would be presented after the talks. This refers to clarity on the composition and deployment of peacekeepers in the event of a ceasefire.
Background on Coalition of the Willing talks
In December 2025, Emmanuel Macron announced that a meeting of members of the Coalition of the Willing would be held in Paris in early January.
According to him, the meeting is expected to determine each country's contribution to providing security guarantees for Ukraine.
The coalition includes more than 30 states, including key partners of Ukraine from Europe and the United States, which are discussing a peace plan, security guarantees, and further support for Ukraine after the end of the war.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will take part in the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris on January 6.
