Macron: Russia should not have veto over peacekeeping deployment in Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that Russia should not have a veto over the deployment of foreign peacekeeping forces in Ukraine as part of a ceasefire agreement.

In an interview with several French publications, Macron mentioned that any such force would consist of “a few thousand troops per country” and would be stationed at multiple locations. He also noted that several countries, both within and outside Europe, have expressed interest in participating in the mission.

“Ukraine is sovereign. If it requests the presence of allied forces on its territory, this is not something Russia should approve or reject,” Macron said in an interview published late on March 15.

His remarks come as European leaders explore the potential framework for a future peacekeeping mission.

Following negotiations in Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian and US officials announced on March 11 that Kyiv had agreed to a 30-day ceasefire—contingent on Russia’s approval. However, Moscow has so far remained indifferent to the proposal, with President Vladimir Putin demanding additional conditions, including halting US arms supplies to Ukraine.