India, Jan. 8 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said that a security Statement endorsed by Ukraine's allies, including the US, is a "significant step" toward ending Russia's invasion of its neighbour as part of a peace settlement. Following a meeting of more than two dozen countries in Paris, Macron said officials agreed on ceasefire monitoring mechanisms under US leadership.

A joint Statement said the allies also agreed to continue long-term military assistance and armament to Ukraine's armed forces, which "will remain the first line of defence and deterrence" after any peace deal is signed. Foreign countries will provide reassurance measures on land, sea and in the air to be enacted once "a credible cessation of hostilities has taken...