U.S., Ukraine Discuss Security Guarantees

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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, met with advisers on August 22 to discuss security guarantees for Ukraine. Officials aim to finalize a draft framework by the end of next week.

The meeting included U.S. military generals, as well as national security advisers from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Finland. Representatives from NATO and the European Commission also participated. According to sources in Ukraine’s President’s Office, the security guarantees are being developed in two main groups: political-legal and military.

The political-legal subgroup, led by Yermak, is crafting mechanisms similar to Article 5 of the NATO Treaty on collective defense, outlining responses if Russia resumes aggression. Military matters are overseen by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umierov, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi, and other defense officials.

Military guarantees under discussion include the provision of weapons, financial support for Ukraine’s defense forces, intelligence sharing, training programs, and joint military exercises. Sources indicate the military component is close to completion. Discussions also consider the “Coalition of the Willing” and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, also known as the Ramstein Format. These groups help coordinate which states could deploy military contingents to Ukraine under a sustainable ceasefire.

A source familiar with the talks explained, “For Ukraine and European states, it is very important that the U.S. ensures a backstop mechanism. While President Donald Trump and other officials have said troops on the ground are not currently considered, the U.S. could provide support, particularly air cover, as part of the guarantees.”

Oleksandr Bevz, Yermak’s adviser, confirmed that the draft project is expected to be finalized next week. This framework will outline key components, but the formal signing and ratification of agreements will require additional time.

Negotiators are focusing on creating a clear, actionable protocol for responding to potential Russian aggression. This includes political, financial, and military measures to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security are defended.

The discussions signal strong international coordination, highlighting the U.S. commitment to Ukraine’s defense alongside European partners and NATO allies. The proposed guarantees aim to provide a structured approach for collective action while maintaining flexibility to respond to evolving threats.