Thu Sep 04 19:26:05 UTC 2025: **Headline: 26 Nations Pledge Troops to Ukraine After Fighting Ceases; U.S. Support Hinges on New Sanctions Against Russia**
**Paris, France** – A coalition of 26 nations, primarily European but including Canada, Australia, and Japan, has pledged to deploy troops to Ukraine as a “reassurance force” once the fighting with Russia ends. The announcement came after a summit in Paris aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s security amidst concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin remains unwilling to negotiate a peace agreement.
French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking after the meeting, expressed confidence that the United States would support the security efforts. He revealed that a video call with U.S. President Donald Trump followed the summit, seeking clarity on Washington’s commitment. Macron stated that U.S. support for the “reassurance force” would be finalized soon, and Washington would collaborate with European countries in imposing new sanctions if Russia continues to reject a peace deal.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the pledge as a “serious concrete step,” emphasizing the importance of preventing future Russian aggression. While troops will not be deployed on the front lines, they will provide security on the ground, in the sea, and in the air.
However, the path to peace remains uncertain. Despite calls from other European leaders for increased pressure on Putin, Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no inclination to return to the negotiating table.
Adding to the complexities, President Trump has urged European nations to cease purchasing Russian oil and called for economic pressure on China for funding Russia’s war efforts. This demand comes amidst accusations of double standards, as the U.S. continues to spare China, the largest buyer of Russian crude, from similar penalties.
First Piper 