History is being made today in Kyiv, as senior military representatives from France, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine convened in Kyiv to discuss the deployment of a foreign military contingent on Ukrainian soil. The meeting, held behind closed doors, marks one of the most significant multinational military consultations in Kyiv since Russia’s full-scale invasion began.
According to sources cited by Suspilne, the French delegation is led by General Thierry Burkhard, Chief of the Defence Staff, while the UK is represented by Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Chief of the Defence Staff of the British Armed Forces. The Ukrainian side includes top military leadership, though specific names were not publicly disclosed.
The talks are taking place at the chiefs of staff level and are expected to last throughout the day. Multiple meetings are scheduled with Ukraine’s military command. Notably, both General Burkhard and Admiral Radakin are expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later today.
While no official agenda has been published, the central topic of discussion is the potential stationing of foreign military forces—either in training, advisory, or defensive roles—within Ukraine. This comes amid heightened debate across Europe about whether NATO members should adopt a more direct posture in supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
The meeting follows recent remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron, who stated that the deployment of Western troops to Ukraine should not be ruled out. Although his comments sparked controversy among allies, they also initiated a broader strategic dialogue about deterrence, red lines, and escalation.
The outcome of the Kyiv meeting is not yet public, but its very occurrence signals a major shift in how Ukraine and its partners are openly discussing military cooperation and security guarantees.
As Ukraine continues to defend its sovereignty under extreme pressure from Russian forces, today’s talks may mark a turning point in Europe’s engagement with the war—not just through weapons and aid, but possibly through boots on the ground.