Paris Hosts Ukraine Security Talks Amid Uncertainty Over U.S. Focus on Venezuela

PARIS: Ukraine’s allies gathered in Paris on Tuesday for high-level talks aimed at shaping the country’s security in the event of a ceasefire with Russia. However, progress may be limited as the Trump administration’s attention shifts to Venezuela.French President Emmanuel Macron had expressed optimism about the summit, calling it a “coalition of the willing” committed to deterring future Russian aggression. In his Dec. 31 address, Macron said allies would “make concrete commitments… to protect Ukraine and ensure a just and lasting peace.”The meeting brings together 35 officials, including 27 heads of state and government, with the U.S. represented by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner after Secretary of State Marco Rubio altered plans due to the Venezuelan situation.Participants aim to address five key priorities post-ceasefire: monitoring the ceasefire, supporting Ukraine’s armed forces, deploying a multinational force on land, sea, and air, committing to counter future Russian aggression, and establishing long-term defense cooperation.Ukraine is seeking firm guarantees from Washington, considered critical for securing similar commitments from other allies, amid concerns that a ceasefire could allow Russia to regroup for renewed attacks.