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High-ranking military officials from the US and several European nations are currently collaborating on strategies to ensure security guarantees for Ukraine, according to sources. They presented their proposals to national security advisors this week as ongoing discussions seek effective ways to safeguard the country amid the persistent conflict with Russia.
This development follows US President Donald Trump’s commitment to assist in Ukraine’s defense under any peace agreement to end Russia’s prolonged three-and-a-half-year invasion. A Pentagon statement indicated that both US and European planners have outlined military options for review by allied national security officials. Reuters reported that these military options are under preparation.
Defense leaders from the US, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the UK, and Ukraine gathered in Washington, DC, from Tuesday through Thursday. A knowledgeable source revealed that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio—who also acts as Trump’s national security advisor—conducted a conference call on Thursday with counterparts from Europe to discuss these potential military options.
Another American official confirmed Rubio’s discussions with UK National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell, Bjoern Seibert (the European Commission President’s chief of staff), Geoffrey van Leeuwen (NATO Secretary General’s chief of staff), along with officials from France, Italy, Germany, and Finland.
While final details are still being ironed out, the sources indicated that European countries are expected to shoulder a significant portion, if not the majority, of any forces involved in securing Ukraine. This aligns with Vice President JD Vance’s statement Wednesday that Europe must bear the “lion’s share” of costs for the operation.
The planning process continues, with Washington still defining its role in the effort. Trump has publicly stated he would not send US troops to Ukraine but remains open to other forms of military support, such as providing aerial assistance.
One possible strategy involves deploying European troops to Ukraine under US command and control. US air support could include enhanced air defense systems or enforcing a no-fly zone using American fighter jets.
Support for troop deployments within Europe varies, with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer endorsing the idea of forming a “coalition of the willing,” and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicating his country’s potential participation.
Germany’s soldiers’ union leader emphasized that European NATO allies need to accept the reality: deploying tens of thousands of troops for a long-term Ukraine peacekeeping force might be necessary. Trump has pushed for a swift resolution to what is considered Europe’s deadliest conflict in 80 years, while Kyiv and its allies worry he might attempt to impose a peace agreement favorable to Russia’s terms.
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