US makes big commitment to Ukraine peace deal – but one man is missing from talks

US makes big commitment to Ukraine peace deal – but one man is missing from talks
World


Although not to be underplayed, the Anglo-French commitment to put a multi-national force into Ukraine after a ceasefire was always on the table.

But the US commitment, to provide a backstop if Russia invaded Ukraine again, is significant, not least because of the rocky, constantly changing tone from Donald Trump.

The unexpected, late addition of Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff in the post-meeting press conference was a sign of unity.

US makes big commitment to Ukraine peace deal – but one man is missing from talks
Image:
‘Coalition of the willing’ leaders meet in Paris. Pic: AP

The language was equally supportive: Witkoff described European leaders as “colleagues” and Sir Keir Starmer as “incredible”.

It seemed normal and yet the European-American relationship under Trump has been anything but.

The elephant in the room – Greenland – was successfully put to one side for now, and for the sake of focusing on Ukraine.

Trump latest: ‘Military an option’ to acquire Greenland

But as much as tonight’s outcome may satisfy the Ukrainians, there was one person not in Paris: Vladimir Putin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin. Pic: AP
Image:
Russian President Vladimir Putin. Pic: AP

How will he react to the prospect of NATO member troops in Ukraine? Is he prepared to pull back his forces from part or all of the Donbas? Does he even want peace at all?

For all the progress here in Paris, it’s moot unless Putin is prepared to make concessions on his own maximalist demands.

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