Key security negotiations for Ukraine took place in Paris, with delegations from Ukraine, the US, France, the UK, and other European nations participating. Key Ukrainian representatives included the Head of the President's Office Budanov, NSDC Secretary Umerov, and Chief of General Staff Hnatov. Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky was in Cyprus, meeting with national leaders.
As a result of the talks, Ukraine, France, and the UK signed a joint declaration expressing their intent to possibly deploy multinational forces in Ukraine in the future. However, no general communiqué or formal security plan was announced after the meeting. French President Macron stated that such a plan would be presented to the public at a later date, and the current declaration should be seen as a statement of intent only. The US did not sign the concluding document, and other countries, including Germany and Italy, refrained from any troop deployment commitments.
The role of the US in the process and future security initiatives remains in focus. The unclear position of Russia on the negotiations and continuation of hostilities remains a central issue influencing further progress.
The Ukrainian delegation’s composition has drawn attention, with Davyd Arakhamia — known for his negotiation skills and US contacts — joining the group, potentially facilitating dialogue with parliament for any difficult decisions ahead. The replacement of the President’s Office Head (Budanov for Yermak) may also strengthen cooperation between the executive power and parliament.
Key discussion topics included control over the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Parliament may have to address essential decisions related to these issues, including a potential peace treaty ratification.
With the situation still unresolved, further decisions depend on the US stance and Russia’s reaction. The signed declaration is merely a first step. Additional talks and potentially new documents are expected in the near future.
