Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that any Western forces deployed to Ukraine would be considered “legitimate” targets for Moscow’s army.
Speaking at an Eastern Economic Forum panel event on September 5, 2025, Putin said Russia would consider such forces a threat.
His remarks followed a pledge by Ukraine’s allies to commit troops as part of a future peace deal.
Western Allies Commit Troops against Russia
Countries, led by France and Britain, announced plans to form a “reassurance” force.
The deployment would cover land, sea, and air operations to patrol any peace agreement between the Russians and the Ukrainians.
Details on the number of troops or how countries would contribute have not yet been revealed.
“If some troops appear there, especially now during the fighting, we proceed from the premise that they will be legitimate targets,” Putin said during an economic forum in Vladivostok.
Peace and Security Concerns
Putin argued that the presence of Western troops would not foster lasting peace. He said Ukraine’s closer military ties with the West were among what he described as the “root causes” of the ongoing conflict.
Kyiv, however, maintains that Western-backed security guarantees are essential.
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Ukrainian officials argue that such protection is the only way to prevent Russia from launching another offensive once a deal is signed.
Since Moscow’s invasion began in February 2022, tens of thousands have been killed, millions displaced, and large parts of eastern and southern Ukraine destroyed.
Russia’s Position on Peace Deals
Despite his warning, Putin signalled that his country would respect a peace agreement if one could be reached.
“If decisions are reached that will lead to peace, to long-term peace, then I simply don’t see the point in their presence on the territory of Ukraine. Because if deals are reached, let no one doubt that Russia will comply with them in full,” he said.
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Ukraine and its allies remain doubtful, citing Russia’s record of breaking previous agreements, particularly between 2014 and 2022, when Moscow supported separatists in eastern Ukraine.
This comes a day after China dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims that it was colluding with Russia and North Korea against Washington during a high-profile event in Beijing.
The remarks came after Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a military parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II.
Responding to the allegations, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, on September 4, said the commemorations were meant to bring together peace-loving countries.
He stressed that China’s diplomatic relations have never been targeted at any third party.
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