New Warnings from Putin on Western Military in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that Western military personnel present in Ukraine would become “legal targets of defeat.” This comment raises concerns about the feasibility of international peacekeeping efforts, especially following a ceasefire.
Speaking at the Economic Forum in Russia’s Far East, Putin remarked, “This is one of the fundamental causes of the war: we are trying to involve Ukraine in NATO.” He further emphasized that if foreign troops are deployed during active conflict, they would be considered legitimate targets.
His statements followed support for a postwar mission organized with European allies. At a recent event in Paris, Ukrainian President Voldymir Zelensky highlighted that 26 nations are collaborating to establish security guarantees for Ukraine, potentially involving military contributions across air, sea, and land. French President Emmanuel Macron referred to this commitment as a “potential development on land, sea or air.”
Putin pointed out that foreign soldiers would complicate any long-term political resolution. “If we come to an agreement that fosters lasting peace, I think the reason for their presence will no longer be valid,” he said, assuring that Russia would adhere to any such agreements once reached.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Putin’s long-held grievances regarding NATO, suggesting that the security guarantees offered to Ukraine represent a push of the alliance closer to Russia’s borders. “One of the core issues in this conflict was NATO’s involvement in Ukraine, which weakens our security guarantees,” he stated, insisting that any resolution would need assurances for both the U.S. and Ukraine.
These comments came after a week of extensive diplomacy for Putin, who met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. From China, he revealed that U.S. President Donald Trump had asked him to engage directly with Zelensky to end the war. “Trump inquired about the possibility of such a meeting. I responded affirmatively. When Zelensky is ready, he can come to Moscow. We will ensure the safety of Ukrainian leaders,” Putin confirmed.
Zelensky publicly dismissed the invitation, suggesting that Moscow appears to be stalling genuine negotiations. “Our American ally informed me of Putin’s invitation to Moscow. It seems to me that if someone isn’t interested in meeting, they should really extend the invite to me,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andri Sibikha mentioned that Kyiv is open to direct discussions, but only on neutral territory. “Currently, at least seven countries — including Austria, the Vatican, Switzerland, and Turkey — are willing to host meetings between Ukraine and Russian leaders to help bring the war to an end,” he shared on social media.
