UK and France enhance Ukraine's negotiating strength

The UK and France are working to strengthen Ukraine's negotiating position as US President Donald Trump pushes for a settlement in the war with Russia. European defense ministers met in Paris to discuss support for Ukraine amid a US military pullback. A proposed "reassurance force" aims to provide security guarantees for Ukraine, with contributions from various countries. Discussions include potential troop deployments in neighboring countries and other military support, despite Russia's opposition to NATO troops in Ukraine. Military chiefs will present detailed options for a peacekeeping force to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. They hope to secure US commitments for intelligence and airpower without deploying American troops.