Western countries are discussing a security guarantee system for Ukraine that could be implemented after a peace agreement is concluded, according to Financial Times sources.

The proposed defense structure consists of three distinct layers. The first line of defense would be a demilitarized zone on the border, possibly controlled by peacekeepers from a third country with agreement from both Kyiv and Moscow, sources told the publication.

Ukrainian forces, armed and trained by NATO, would form the second line of defense and provide the main defensive capability. The third line would consist of European deterrent forces deployed deeper in the country with logistical support from the United States.

Coalition of the Willing takes shape

Within the framework of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, Britain has proposed deploying Typhoon fighter jets in western Ukraine and a brigade of 3,000-5,000 military personnel to train the Ukrainian army, according to media reports. France, Canada and Australia could also send troops to western Ukraine.

Czech President Petr Pavel stated that his country “could be part of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.” Lithuania has also declared its readiness to provide peacekeeping troops for a possible mission in Ukraine.

Bloomberg previously reported that approximately 10 countries are prepared to send their troops to Ukrainian territory after the war.

US position and skepticism

Washington emphasizes it has no intention of sending its troops to Ukrainian territory but is ready to provide intelligence, surveillance capabilities, and participate in developing Ukraine’s air defense system.

However, part of US President Donald Trump’s administration remains skeptical about possible guarantees, fearing the United States could be drawn into a new conflict.

Russian opposition

Russia opposes the deployment of any Western forces. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that negotiations on security guarantees without Moscow are “a road to nowhere.”

According to Lavrov, the security guarantees discussed between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul in 2022 are “a very good example” of what the Kremlin would approve.

The security guarantee discussions for Kyiv have become more active following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s meeting with US President Donald Trump and European colleagues in Washington.

The Dutch government has committed €500 million in Dutch funding for Patriot missile systems and components for Kyiv, becoming the first NATO country to directly purchase US-made weapons for Ukraine’s defense. The move, announced by Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans on 4 August, comes as Russia escalates its ongoing air attacks on Ukrainian civilians.

Netherlands funds US Patriots as Russia escalates air strikes

On 4 August, Brekelmans posted on X that “Ukraine needs more air defence and ammunition now,” and stated the Netherlands would supply “as the first NATO ally” a €500 million package of US-made weapons, including Patriot missile components and ammunition. The minister said this would help Ukraine defend itself and the rest of Europe against Russian aggression.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the decision, saying it would “help save lives.” He discussed the aid with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof and linked the move to practical outcomes of the recent NATO summit held in The Hague.

“This is the first such step among NATO countries at a time when Russia is trying to scale up its strikes. It will definitely help protect the lives of our people,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.

Zelenskyy praises timing and scale of Dutch funding for Patriot

Zelenskyy described the €500 million deal as a “substantial contribution” and thanked the Netherlands for contributing to a stronger “air shield” for both Ukraine and Europe. He said his conversation with Prime Minister Schoof confirmed Dutch leadership on military aid to Kyiv.

The president also thanked NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for what he called “determination to strengthen our defense.” He added that Ukraine was expecting Schoof to visit soon.