Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that any Western troops sent to Ukraine while the war is ongoing would be treated as “legitimate targets,” sharpening Moscow’s messaging just as Kyiv’s allies explore post-war security arrangements that could place international forces in or around Ukraine after a ceasefire or peace deal.

What Putin Said in Vladivostok

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum, Putin stated: “If any troops appear there, especially now, in the midst of ongoing hostilities, we will regard them as legitimate targets for strikes.” He added that if decisions “lead to peace, to long-term peace,” there would be “no point” in any foreign troop presence on Ukrainian territory. These remarks reiterate Moscow’s opposition to Ukraine’s NATO path and to any interim peacekeeping plan during active combat.

Allies’ Post-War Security Plan

European leaders meeting in Paris signaled that 26 nations are prepared to offer Ukraine post-war security guarantees—envisaging a multinational force with land, sea and air components to deter renewed aggression after hostilities end. Officials stressed such a force would deploy only once a ceasefire or peace agreement is in place, not to fight Russia during the war.

Kyiv’s Push—and Moscow’s Rebuttal

Ukrainian leaders have urged partners to accelerate concrete guarantees, arguing that credible commitments are needed now even as details remain sensitive. The Kremlin, meanwhile, has dismissed any plan to insert foreign troops before a treaty, insisting on legally binding arrangements and warning that peacekeepers during conflict would be unacceptable.