European Allies Form Ukraine Stabilization Force as US Joins Talks

ROME — European nations have launched a plan to create a stabilization force for Ukraine, preparing to deploy once a ceasefire takes hold. For the first time, the United States took part in the discussions, signaling stronger Western coordination on Ukraine’s postwar recovery.

At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, coalition members agreed to set up the Multinational Force Ukraine, which will begin operations from a headquarters in Paris, then rotate to London. A coordination center will operate in Kyiv to support planning on the ground.

U.S. special envoy Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg joined the talks alongside Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal, who are pushing for a new sanctions bill that includes 500% tariffs on goods from countries still buying Russian oil.

Leaders Back Postwar Deployment

French President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the group via video link. Starmer described the force as “essential for delivering European security.”

“This coalition ensures we can move fast after a ceasefire to block any new Russian aggression,” Starmer said.

Although the group hasn’t named the 30 countries expected to participate, officials confirmed the force will focus on logistical support, air defense coordination, and military training. U.S. representatives made clear the mission doesn’t include deploying American troops.

Italy Hails US Participation

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the U.S. decision to join the meeting, calling it a “crucial step” in showing Western unity.

“We must increase pressure on Moscow to achieve a ceasefire,” Meloni said. “But diplomacy only works when backed by deterrence.”

Zelenskyy Welcomes Broader Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Kellogg, Graham, and Blumenthal for attending. He also welcomed Trump’s renewed commitment to sending weapons and support to Kyiv.

“Today, our partners spoke with actions, not just words,” Zelenskyy said. “This united front shows the world Ukraine is not alone.”

He quoted Blumenthal, who told the group that seeing so many leaders around the table was “worth more than a thousand words.”

Coalition Prepares for Long-Term Peace

The new force will support Ukraine’s military reconstruction, protect its airspace, and help secure the Black Sea. Coalition leaders believe this deterrent can stabilize the region once the fighting stops.

As Russia intensifies its military campaign, European and American leaders are moving quickly to shape the future of Ukraine — one built on security, strength, and sovereignty.

For author: Staff News
Courtesy of: Forbes
Source: AP News, July 10, 2025