A significant pledge by Western allies to deploy troops to Ukrainian soil has reportedly left Russian President Vladimir Putin uncertain of his next move, according to a former Russian prime minister. The claim suggests a major shift in the dynamics of the conflict.
Western Coalition's Decisive Move in Paris
Former Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov stated that the recent meeting of the 'coalition of the willing' in Paris has fundamentally altered the situation. He told Times Radio that the agreement, involving the UK and France, to establish military hubs in Ukraine following a potential peace deal has "changed the game".
The summit on Tuesday, 7 January 2026, saw UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky sign a joint declaration. This pact commits Britain to building protected facilities for weapons and allows for British and French boots on the ground after a ceasefire is established.
Putin's Alleged Dilemma and Transatlantic Unity
Kasyanov argued that the Western strategy has cleverly separated the issue of security guarantees for Ukraine from other negotiation points, applying direct pressure on Moscow. He asserted that Putin now has "nothing to say" and doesn't know how to react.
"To reject everything, it means to reject Trump's approach," Kasyanov said, highlighting a critical development. He pointed to the presence of US President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, at the talks, who confirmed American backing for the security guarantees. This move, Kasyanov claimed, reconfirmed transatlantic unity and means Ukraine will continue to enjoy full European support with US backing.
Russian Backlash and the Blueprint for Peace
The Western announcement has provoked a furious reaction from Putin's inner circle. Senior lieutenant Dmitry Rogozin, a former deputy premier, branded Prime Minister Starmer "illiterate and a fool" and implied that such a move would open the UK to Russian missile strikes.
The peace blueprint agreed in Paris includes several key elements:
- A multinational force for Ukraine led by European nations.
- US-led ceasefire monitoring and long-term support for the Ukrainian army.
- A commitment to defend Ukraine and deter Russian attacks if peace is breached, a stance the US has now agreed to support.
Prime Minister Starmer emphasised the importance of the alliance, stating, "It's important we're starting the year like this - European and American allies, side by side with President Zelensky, standing for peace." He acknowledged, however, that "the hardest yards are still ahead."
The consolidation of Western support, coupled with the specific pledge of a future troop presence, appears to have created a new and challenging strategic calculus for the Kremlin, according to the analysis from Moscow's former premier.
