The UK and France have signed a declaration of intent to deploy troops in Ukraine should a peace agreement be reached with Russia, according to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Starmer made the announcement following discussions with Ukraine's allies in Paris.

The proposed deployment aims to establish military hubs throughout Ukraine and construct protected facilities for weapons and military equipment. This infrastructure is intended to serve as a deterrent against future Russian aggression. The allies also suggested that the United States would take the lead role in monitoring any ceasefire agreement.

Russia has consistently warned that the presence of foreign troops in Ukraine would constitute a "legitimate target." However, as of this report, Moscow has not issued an official statement regarding this specific announcement.

The discussions took place during a meeting in Paris on Tuesday, involving heads of state and high-ranking officials from the "Coalition of the Willing." Starmer stated at a joint press conference that the declaration of intent on troop deployment had been signed.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and currently controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. Previous attempts at peace negotiations have been hampered by disagreements over territorial concessions and security guarantees. Ukrainian President Zelensky previously indicated that a peace deal was "90% ready" but significant issues remain unresolved.