Vladimir Putin warned that any Western troops in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets, escalating tensions amid ongoing discussions about postwar security guarantees involving multiple nations. While European countries and the US consider deploying peacekeeping or reassurance forces, no concrete agreements have been reached, and prospects for peace talks remain uncertain, with Putin expressing skepticism about reaching an agreement with Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Western forces in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets if they arrive before a peace agreement is reached, amid European leaders' willingness to deploy troops to secure a deal. Putin also expressed skepticism about face-to-face negotiations with Ukraine's Zelensky and emphasized Russia's readiness for talks in Moscow, while warning against Western military presence during ongoing fighting.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that any Western troops in Ukraine would be legitimate targets for Russia, highlighting ongoing tensions and disagreements over security guarantees and the future of Ukraine amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Secret discussions about deploying Western troops and private military companies to Ukraine have resumed amid increased long-range weapon deliveries to Kyiv, according to Le Monde. These talks are partly driven by concerns over potential changes in US support following Donald Trump's possible re-election. The UK and France are negotiating defense cooperation to strengthen European security, with no official troop deployment yet authorized. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has stated that all options remain open, and French President Emmanuel Macron has previously considered troop deployment if Russian forces advance significantly.
French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his refusal to rule out the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine, emphasizing the existential threat posed by a Russian victory. He defended his strategy of strategic ambiguity, arguing that setting limits on responding to Moscow's actions would be choosing defeat. Despite support from French lawmakers, public opinion appears to be against Macron's stance, with a majority expressing concern about turning Russia into an adversary. Macron's hawkish tone has also strained relations with Germany, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz taking a more subdued approach, and the two leaders are set to meet in an attempt to display unity.
French President Macron's suggestion of deploying Western troops to Ukraine as a response to Russia's invasion has been met with resistance from other European leaders and the US. The EU is struggling to increase military support for Ukraine and facing the limits of its own power and military capabilities. Macron's posturing reflects the EU's challenges in achieving autonomy in military production and providing substantial support to Ukraine, highlighting the bloc's dependence on NATO and the US for security.
French President Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of the possibility of Western troops being sent to Ukraine prompted an outcry from other leaders, with Russian President Vladimir Putin warning of a global nuclear conflict if NATO sends combat troops. Macron's remarks, initially unclear, were later clarified by French officials, who emphasized the need to send a clear signal to Russia. Macron's evolving views on Russia and concerns over its aggression were also highlighted, with some analysts criticizing his delivery as potentially divisive within NATO.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the West against sending troops to Ukraine, cautioning that it could lead to nuclear war and the destruction of civilization. He referenced French President Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of sending Western troops to Ukraine and emphasized Russia's capability to strike Western targets with nuclear weapons. Putin also highlighted Russia's military progress in Ukraine and announced plans to bolster its military presence along its Western border to counter NATO expansion. Additionally, he discussed Russia's economy, social support programs for families, and health policy, while praising those who have served in the war in Ukraine.
During a Paris summit of 20 leaders, French President Macron did not rule out the possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine, as fears grow that the West's support for Kyiv is waning. Meanwhile, Ukraine has urged EU leaders to take concrete action on providing ammunition. Additionally, the far-right AfD in Germany seeks to mend relations with French leader Le Pen, while Macron postpones his visit to Ukraine amid pressure for increased aid.
French President Macron stated that the possibility of sending western troops to Ukraine cannot be ruled out, as the situation in the region continues to escalate. This statement comes amid growing concerns over Russia's military buildup near Ukraine's borders and the ongoing conflict in the region.