Remarks at Russian Economic Forum
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Friday that any Western soldiers deployed to Ukraine while fighting continues would be treated as legitimate targets by Russia.
He made the comments during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, emphasizing that Moscow would not tolerate foreign military involvement amid active hostilities.
Triggered by Security Commitments from Allies
The warning came after a Paris summit in which French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 countries had pledged long-term security support for Ukraine.
These pledges include funding, military training, and the potential creation of a multinational reassurance force once the war concludes.
Putin stated that deploying troops before a ceasefire or peace settlement would place them in direct danger of Russian military action.
Responses and Potential Risks
Ukrainian officials dismissed the statement as an attempt to intimidate international supporters.
French representatives said their aid is defensive in nature and complies with international law.
The United States and the United Kingdom confirmed they have no plans to send combat troops into Ukraine.
Analysts note that, while deployment of Western forces remains unlikely, Putin’s remarks highlight the risk of escalation if foreign troops were ever introduced into the conflict.
