European Boots on the Ground in Ukraine Would Need Trump

Spanish troops walk past a Foxhound mechanized infantry vehicle during the NATO "Brilliant Jump" military exercises in Drawsko Pomorskie, Poland, on Feb. 26.Photographer: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

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By Ellen Milligan and Ott Tammik

February 19, 2025 at 8:47 PM UTC

Updated on

February 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM UTC

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The UK and France are drawing up plans for a European-led “reassurance force” for Ukraine, to ensure Russia doesn’t attack the country again if a ceasefire is negotiated.

The plan is contingent on President Donald Trump agreeing to provide the force with US protection, including American aircraft and intelligence, and would primarily police Ukraine’s airspace and the Black Sea, according to western officials.