Putin Warns Foreign Troops in Ukraine Would Be 'Legitimate Targets'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that any foreign military forces deployed to Ukraine would be regarded as "legitimate targets" by Russia. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin emphasized that the presence of foreign troops during active hostilities would provoke Russian military action.

This statement follows discussions among Ukraine's allies about potential security guarantees for Kyiv after the conflict. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 countries have pledged support for Ukraine's future defense, potentially including land, sea, and air operations. However, these deployments would not occur until a peace agreement is reached.

Putin reiterated Russia's opposition to foreign military presence in Ukraine, even post-conflict, asserting that such deployments would be unjustified. He also emphasized that any long-term security arrangements must address both Russian and Ukrainian needs, noting that no serious dialogue has occurred on the matter.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and its allies have reached a general framework for providing security guarantees against future Russian aggression. The announcement was made during a meeting in Paris where around 30 Western leaders gathered to discuss post-war security commitments to Ukraine. Although the coalition does not include the United States, 26 countries have indicated their willingness to support Ukraine.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism about the European proposal, stating that he plans to hold more talks with Putin soon. Trump made the remark as he hosted U.S. tech leaders at the White House, adding that he has a "very good dialogue" with the Russian leader and expressing hope that U.S.-led peace efforts will soon yield progress.