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Russia Rules Out Any Talks on Foreign Troop Deployment in Ukraine

Russia has firmly ruled out any discussions regarding the deployment of foreign military troops in Ukraine, describing such proposals as “unacceptable” across all formats, according to statements made at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, emphasized that Moscow refuses to entertain the idea of an international post-conflict security force under any circumstances. She said European leaders advocating for such measures should take heed of Russia’s firm stance. ReutersAl Jazeera
President Vladimir Putin reinforced this position by warning that if foreign military forces are deployed in Ukraine, they would be regarded as “legitimate targets for destruction.” Putin clarified that such forces would be entirely unnecessary if a long-term peace agreement is achieved. ReutersThe Kyiv Independent
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov echoed the sentiment, stating that Ukraine’s security cannot be ensured by foreign, especially European or American, military contingents. He added: “You cannot guarantee the security of one country by undermining the security of another.” Peskov reaffirmed that such deployments would be seen by Russia as a direct threat. The Kyiv Independent+1
Putin: Russia Does Not Oppose Ukraine Joining EU

In a significant diplomatic development, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on September 2, 2025, that Moscow has “never objected” to Ukraine’s potential membership in the European Union. Speaking during talks with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Beijing, Putin emphasized that while Russia opposes Ukraine’s accession to NATO, it does not oppose EU membership. He described NATO expansion as “unacceptable” for Russia, citing security concerns.
Putin’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about a potential peace settlement in Ukraine. He mentioned that during his August summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, they explored options for ensuring Ukraine’s security in the event of a conflict resolution. Putin expressed hope for a consensus on this matter and indicated Russia’s willingness to cooperate with the United States on nuclear safety, particularly concerning the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest nuclear facility.
Despite Putin’s statements, Western leaders remain cautious. They view his remarks as tactical rather than genuine steps toward peace, given Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine and its firm stance against NATO enlargement. The European Union and NATO have reiterated that Ukraine’s sovereignty and its right to choose alliances are non-negotiable.