Putin Rejects Western Proposal for “Reassurance Force” in Ukraine
In a bold move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly rejected Western proposals for a “reassurance force” in Ukraine, following a Paris summit focused on finalizing security guarantees.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 of Ukraine’s allies had committed to deploying troops “by land, sea or air” to enhance security once a ceasefire is in place.
Putin wasted no time in shutting down the allies’ initiative, issuing a warning that any troops sent to Ukraine would be considered “legitimate targets,” especially during ongoing conflict, despite no immediate deployment plans.
“If any troops appear there, especially now, during the fighting, we assume that they will be legitimate targets for destruction,” Putin emphasized during his keynote speech at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.
“And if decisions are reached that will lead to peace, to long-term peace, then I simply see no point in their presence on Ukrainian territory.”
Putin’s stance came after Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, accompanied by Macron, revealed that 26 European states were ready to offer security guarantees to Ukraine post-war through a Coalition of the Willing.
While Ukraine’s European partners have not proposed sending combat troops during the conflict, the plan entails deploying international peacekeepers after a ceasefire or peace agreement.
Putin expressed doubts about this approach, deeming it “practically impossible” to reach an agreement on crucial issues with Ukraine to end the invasion.
He also emphasized Russia’s desire for security guarantees, without specifying the measures or how they would protect Russia in the war against Ukraine.
Peace guarantees must be for both countries, according to Putin, who reiterated Russia’s firm opposition to Ukraine joining NATO but supported its aspirations to join the European Union.
Macron revealed that the Coalition of the Willing was prepared to deploy a “reassurance force” for Ukraine, which would require US support.
Macron also threatened further economic sanctions on Moscow to ramp up pressure and push for negotiations, while US President Donald Trump expressed plans for more talks with Putin.
