France expresses readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine in 2026 under future security guarantees

France is prepared to deploy military forces to Ukraine in 2026 if necessary as part of future security guarantees, French Army Chief of Staff General Pierre Schill said on Friday.

Schill stated that French land forces were preparing for the possibility of stationing troops in Ukraine should security arrangements require it.

“We will be ready, if necessary, to deploy forces to Ukraine within the security guarantees”, the General announced.

He added that 2026 would be a “year of coalitions” and highlighted France’s plans for intensive multinational exercises under the Orion 26 programme. The drills are expected to test interoperability between French forces and allied militaries.

Schill noted France’s land forces were capable of responding simultaneously to three potential threats, including a possible deployment to Ukraine, while also fulfilling NATO commitments.