Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning on Friday, stating that any Western military personnel deployed to Ukraine would become "legitimate targets" for Russian forces. The remarks came during an economic forum in Vladivostok, escalating tensions as Kyiv's allies discuss postwar security measures.
Security Guarantees and Diplomatic Stalemate
Putin's comments followed French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that 26 countries had pledged postwar security guarantees for Ukraine, including potential international military support. Russia has long framed its invasion as a response to NATO's eastward expansion, claiming it seeks to prevent the alliance's presence in Ukraine.
"If some troops appear there… we proceed from the fact that these will be legitimate targets for destruction," Putin stated, while suggesting foreign forces would be unnecessary if lasting peace agreements were reached.
Diverging Approaches Among Allies
While France and Britain have signaled openness to postwar troop deployments, U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out ground forces, emphasizing air support instead. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated demands for stronger security commitments, telling reporters: "We are ready for any kind of meetings. But we don't feel that Putin is ready to end this war."
Putin dismissed prospects for direct negotiations with Zelenskyy, claiming Kyiv's "excessive requests" made agreements "practically impossible." However, he reaffirmed an invitation for talks in Moscow, offering security guarantees for such a meeting.
Global Implications
The exchange highlights deepening geopolitical divides as Western nations balance military support for Ukraine with fears of direct confrontation with Russia. Analysts suggest Putin's remarks aim to deter long-term NATO involvement while positioning Russia as open to dialogue—a stance Ukrainian officials view skeptically given ongoing hostilities.
