Putin Declares International Troops in Ukraine Would Be “Legitimate Targets” as Peace Hopes Dim
September 5, 2025 - Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply rejected Western proposals to deploy a multinational security force to Ukraine, warning that any troops stationed there would be considered “legitimate targets.” The strong condemnation comes after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 allied nations had formally committed to deploying forces – by land, sea, or air – to help secure Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire.
While Macron did not specify which countries would participate, Putin’s response signals a significant escalation in rhetoric and casts a long shadow over already fragile peace prospects. The Russian leader framed the proposed deployment as a provocative act, even if implemented after a potential cessation of hostilities.
“Any troop deployment in Ukraine would be a ‘legitimate objective’,” Putin stated, especially if forces are present on the ground now.This declaration effectively threatens direct military action against international forces operating within Ukraine.Fading Hopes for Negotiation
The Kremlin’s hardline stance follows a brief period of cautious optimism sparked by a recent meeting between putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska. That encounter briefly raised the possibility of a direct dialog between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, potentially leading to a peace agreement.However,Putin has now downplayed the chances of such a meeting.
“I don’t see much sense [in meeting Zelensky],” Putin said. “Because it is almost impractical to reach an agreement with the Ukrainian side on key issues.”
Despite acknowledging Trump’s “very constructive efforts” to broker a solution, Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitri Peskov, leveled criticism at European nations, accusing them of actively working to prolong the conflict.
Security Guarantees for Kyiv
Following the Alaska meeting, a “coalition of the willing,” spearheaded by the United Kingdom and France, has been diligently working to formulate security guarantees for Kyiv. These guarantees would encompass bolstering the Ukrainian military and establishing a dedicated “security force” tasked with ensuring compliance with any future peace accord.
Though, Putin’s latest statements suggest that Russia views such guarantees as unacceptable and a direct threat to its interests. With both sides digging in their heels, the path to a peaceful resolution in Ukraine appears increasingly uncertain.
Keywords: Vladimir Putin, ukraine, Russia, Emmanuel Macron, Donald Trump, Security Force, Ceasefire, Peace Talks, International Troops, Military Intervention, Kyiv, Kremlin, Conflict, Europe.
lucasfernandez – World-Today-News.com – Delivering authoritative global news with clarity and insight.
