Remarks at Vladivostok Forum
Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned on Friday that Western and European forces entering Ukraine while the conflict is ongoing would be considered legitimate targets by Moscow.
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, he stressed that any foreign military presence amid active hostilities would provoke a direct response from Russian forces.
Triggered by European Security Pledges
The statement came in the wake of a summit in Paris, where French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 countries had committed to providing long-term security assistance to Ukraine.
These commitments include financial support, military training, and the potential deployment of a multinational reassurance force once fighting subsides.
Putin warned that any troop movement before a ceasefire or peace agreement would place foreign soldiers at direct risk under Russian military guidelines.
Reactions from Kyiv and Western Nations
Ukrainian officials dismissed Putin’s warning as an effort to intimidate European allies and weaken international backing for Ukraine.
French authorities emphasized that their support is defensive and aligns with international law.
The United States and the United Kingdom confirmed that they have no plans to deploy combat troops to Ukraine.
Analysts note that while the presence of European forces is unlikely, Putin’s statements underscore the continuing risk of escalation if foreign troops were to enter the conflict.
