Putin warned that foreign troops in Ukraine would be “legitimate targets,” rejecting peacekeeping proposals and escalating tensions with the West.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Friday that any foreign troops deployed to Ukraine would be treated as “legitimate targets,” heightening concerns in Europe over the potential escalation of the war. His remarks come as discussions continue in Western capitals about possible peacekeeping roles in Ukraine, a proposal Moscow has firmly rejected.
Speaking in Vladivostok, Putin insisted that Russia does not need international forces to enforce any future agreement, saying Moscow would “abide by the terms of a peace deal without outside interference.” His comments underscore Russia’s long-standing opposition to NATO or other foreign military presence in Ukraine, which the Kremlin views as a direct threat. The warning raises the stakes as the conflict enters its third year, with Ukraine urging stronger Western backing and Russia signaling it will expand its military response if international troops are deployed.