**Top Ukrainian Officials Arrive in Paris to Meet US, European Counterparts**
In a bid to secure stronger security commitments from the international community, top Ukrainian officials have arrived in Paris for meetings with their US and European counterparts. Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov landed in the French capital on April 17 to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine.
The visit comes as Ukraine continues to face aggression from Russia, which has been attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure more than 30 times since a partial ceasefire was agreed upon in March. The Kremlin’s actions have led to widespread casualties and disruptions to critical services across Ukraine.
**Coalition of the Willing Seeks to Provide Security Guarantees**
Yermak announced on social media platform X that bilateral and multilateral meetings were planned with representatives from countries part of the coalition of the willing, including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The British- and French-led coalition was launched in March to provide security guarantees for Ukraine in case of a ceasefire.
Six members of the coalition are reportedly ready to deploy their troops on the ground to monitor the truce. However, US officials have ruled out contributing troops to the planned “reassurance force” in Ukraine, sparking concerns among Ukrainian leaders about Washington’s commitment to Kyiv’s security.
**US Officials Visit Paris Amid Split over Russia Policy**
As part of the visit, Yermak said meetings were also scheduled with representatives from the United States currently present in France. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in the country earlier this week to “advance President Trump’s goal to end the Russia-Ukraine war.”
However, Trump’s efforts to broker a ceasefire have stalled, as Russia continues to reject a full 30-day truce and has violated a partial ceasefire on strikes against energy infrastructure. This has led to a split within the US team, with some officials urging a tougher stance toward the Kremlin.
**Energy Minister Seeks Cooperation with US on Nuclear Power Plant**
Ukraine’s Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko called for cooperation with the United States on bringing Zaporizhzhia NPP under Ukrainian control and starting operations at the nuclear power plant. The move is seen as crucial to ensuring Ukraine’s energy security.
**European Union Mulls Sending Military Advisors to Ukraine**
The European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper stated that the EU was considering sending “military advisors” to Ukraine to organize training for the Ukrainian military. This development comes amid growing concern about Russia’s aggression and its impact on regional stability.
As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, top officials from both sides are meeting in Paris to discuss ways to bring a halt to the violence and ensure security guarantees for Ukraine.
**Key Takeaways**
* Top Ukrainian officials have arrived in Paris to meet with US and European counterparts.
* Meetings are scheduled with representatives from countries part of the coalition of the willing, including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
* Six members of the coalition are reportedly ready to deploy troops on the ground to monitor a ceasefire.
* US officials visit Paris amid concerns about Washington’s commitment to Kyiv’s security.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
