putin Threatens Attacks on Foreign Troops, Launches Largest Drone Assault Amidst Dimming Western Support
KYIV/MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir putin issued a stark warning that any foreign troops deployed to Ukraine would be considered “legitimate targets for destruction,” escalating tensions a day after 26 Western nations – including Ireland – signaled readiness to contribute to a potential postwar “reassurance force” should a peace agreement be reached. The threat coincided with what Ukrainian officials described as Russia’s largest drone attack to date.
putin simultaneously dismissed US-led efforts to convene a Russia-Ukraine peace summit, stating he would only meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Moscow, and indicated a comprehensive agreement on key issues was unlikely.
The developments underscore a growing rift in Western resolve to support Ukraine, with former US President Donald trump reportedly telling European leaders last month the US would not provide peacekeepers but might play a “coordinating role” in postwar security, possibly including air support.While a “coalition of the willing,” led by France and Britain, is attempting to solidify commitments from European nations, Canada, and Australia, Trump remains noncommittal regarding US contributions.
Further fueling concerns, reports emerged Friday that the US is planning to end Section 333, a program funding military training and equipment for EU and NATO states in eastern Europe.
These shifts in Western policy are perceived to embolden Putin,and also leaders in China – which recently unveiled new weapons in a massive military parade – North Korea,Iran,and other autocratic regimes who are strengthening their collaborative ties as the US distances itself from traditional allies.
