Russia has issued a strong warning to the United States and European leaders over reported plans to deploy European soldiers to Ukraine, describing the proposal as dangerous and a direct threat to regional stability. The warning has further reduced hopes for a quick resolution to the conflict, which has now been ongoing for almost four years.
European leaders and United States officials said this week that Ukraine would receive post war security guarantees once active hostilities come to an end. These assurances are expected to include a United States led monitoring and oversight framework, alongside a coalition of European countries tasked with helping to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity after the fighting stops.
However, Moscow has consistently rejected any proposal that would involve the deployment of troops from NATO countries or NATO aligned states on Ukrainian soil. Russian officials have repeatedly warned that such a move would amount to a serious escalation and could provoke a wider confrontation between Russia and the West.
Speaking on Thursday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, said that any foreign military units, bases, or facilities deployed to Ukraine would be regarded as legitimate military targets by the Russian armed forces. She reiterated a warning previously issued by President Vladimir Putin and accused Ukraine’s allies of deliberately fueling the conflict.
Zakharova described the plan as dangerous and destructive, claiming that Western support for Ukraine was forming what she termed an axis of war that threatens peace and stability across Europe. She added that Russia would take all necessary measures to defend its interests and national security.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged that prospects for a ceasefire remain remote, citing Russia’s continued reluctance to agree to a halt in hostilities. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Merz stressed that any lasting peace arrangement must begin with an immediate ceasefire, followed by negotiations on long term security guarantees.
The sequence must be clear. First, a ceasefire, and then long term security guarantees for Ukraine within an agreement involving Russia, Merz said. Without Russia’s consent, such arrangements are not possible, and at present we are still far from achieving that agreement.
Amid the heightened tensions, the United States Embassy in Kyiv issued a security alert on Thursday, warning that a large scale Russian air attack could occur at any time in the coming days. The embassy advised American citizens in Ukraine to remain vigilant and follow security guidance.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy echoed the warning in his nightly address, cautioning that another major Russian assault could take place soon. While he did not provide specific details, he urged citizens to remain alert, pay close attention to air raid sirens, and move to shelters immediately when instructed.
The latest developments highlight the fragile state of diplomatic efforts, the continued humanitarian risks, and the growing concern that the conflict could further escalate if political and military tensions remain unresolved.
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