Expansion of the Franco-British Joint Expeditionary Force
France and the United Kingdom have announced plans to significantly expand their military collaboration by increasing the size of the Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF) to 50,000 troops. This move is aimed at supporting future operations in Ukraine as part of a broader coalition of nations committed to aiding Kyiv in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The decision was revealed during a joint press conference between French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Macron emphasized that the CJEF will be upgraded from a brigade to an army corps, allowing for the deployment of up to 50,000 troops in major combat scenarios. This expansion represents a fivefold increase in the current capacity of the force, highlighting the growing commitment of both nations to strengthen their military presence in the region.
The core of the CJEF will remain focused on France and the United Kingdom, but the force is also expected to incorporate support from other European partners. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of military operations while reinforcing Europe’s role in global security efforts.
According to Macron, the CJEF will play a crucial role in bolstering NATO’s European pillar at the operational level. It is also seen as a step toward strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy, enabling the continent to take greater responsibility for its own defense and stability.
The newly expanded force will be known as the Franco-British Joint Expeditionary Force. According to the Élysée Palace, it could serve as a planning nucleus for stabilization forces that may be deployed in Ukraine as part of a ceasefire agreement. This development underscores the importance of coordinated international efforts in addressing the ongoing crisis in the region.
Coalition of the Willing and Peacekeeping Initiatives
In early April, a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing took place in Kyiv. This group consists of countries that have pledged to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. The coalition was officially announced by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in March 2025, marking a significant shift in the international response to the conflict.
Following the meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that French and British troops would be among the first to arrive in Ukraine. He highlighted the leadership of these two nations as key representatives of the European continent in the effort to support Ukraine.
The involvement of French and British forces in Ukraine reflects a broader strategy to provide military assistance through peacekeeping initiatives. These efforts aim to stabilize the region, protect civilians, and create conditions for a lasting peace. The cooperation between France and the UK has been central to these plans, with both nations playing a leading role in shaping the coalition’s objectives.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the expansion of the Franco-British Joint Expeditionary Force and the formation of the Coalition of the Willing represent important steps in the international community’s response. These developments highlight the growing recognition of the need for coordinated military and political action to address the challenges posed by the conflict.
The future deployment of these forces will likely depend on a range of factors, including the progress of peace negotiations, the security situation on the ground, and the willingness of other European nations to participate in the coalition. However, the commitment of France and the UK to this mission remains strong, signaling a new phase in European defense and security cooperation.
