Moscow : Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday reiterated Moscow’s firm rejection of Ukraine joining NATO, warning that any foreign troops deployed on Ukrainian soil would become “legitimate targets for destruction.”
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin said it remains “practically impossible” to reach an agreement with Ukraine on key issues. Nevertheless, he stressed that Russia will implement any mutually agreed settlements if they are reached.
“If any troops appear there, especially during active fighting, we consider them legitimate targets for destruction,” Putin stated. “If agreements lead to long-term peace, I see no need for foreign forces in Ukraine.”
Putin emphasized, “If these agreements are reached, no one doubts that Russia will implement them in full.” His remarks came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 European nations, part of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, stand ready to provide post-war security guarantees to Ukraine.
Western partners have clarified that they do not intend to deploy soldiers during the ongoing war. Instead, they plan to send international peacekeepers after a ceasefire or peace agreement. These forces would monitor and maintain peace rather than engage in combat.
Putin expressed skepticism about this possibility, noting that reaching consensus on key issues with Ukraine remains “practically impossible.” He added that Russia also seeks security guarantees, but did not specify the measures necessary to protect Russian interests. “Peace guarantees must apply to both Russia and Ukraine,” he said.
Reiterating Moscow’s stance, Putin rejected Ukraine’s NATO membership, while affirming that Kyiv’s EU ambitions remain a “legitimate choice.” “Ukraine’s decision on NATO cannot be considered without taking Russia’s security into account,” he said, adding that EU integration aligns with Kyiv’s sovereign economic and diplomatic priorities.
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