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Summarised by Centrist
The New Zealand government confirmed it was represented at a high-level meeting in Paris involving the so-called Coalition of the Willing, a group of countries considering peacekeeping and security guarantees if a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia is achieved.
New Zealand’s involvement, however, remains diplomatic rather than operational.
The meeting brought together Britain, France and other European allies, with a joint declaration signalling readiness to deploy peacekeeping forces in Ukraine should hostilities formally pause.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the plan could involve British and French forces establishing military hubs capable of storing weapons and equipment to support a future peace arrangement.
Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the declaration, describing it as “more than just words”, and singled out New Zealand and Australia in public remarks as supportive partners. His comments placed New Zealand alongside countries seen as politically aligned with Ukraine’s long-term security needs, even if geographically distant.
While confirming New Zealand’s participation in the Paris discussions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated that any contribution involving personnel would be a matter for ministers, not officials.
“We welcome recent progress made towards negotiating an end to the war in Ukraine,” the ministry said.
The statement added: “New Zealand supports the ongoing efforts of the Coalition. New Zealand is an active participant in the Coalition of the Willing discussions but contributions to post-conflict security efforts would require a Cabinet decision.”
Image: Tekootiwakajumper
