Putin issues chilling threat to UK and NATO as he speaks of 'legitimate target'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to Western leaders considering sending NATO troops to Ukraine, even as discussions about a potential peace agreement between Kyiv and Moscow continue. A proposed “coalition of the willing,” including NATO members committed to supporting Ukraine, has been floated as a possible peacekeeping force if hostilities were to pause.

However, the Kremlin has made it clear that it will not tolerate NATO forces near its border. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) on Friday, Putin warned that any NATO troop presence in Ukraine could be seen as a direct provocation. He stated: “If any troops appear there, especially now during ongoing hostilities, we will regard them as legitimate targets for strikes.”

Britain and France have been prominent supporters of the coalition. UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has suggested that British troops could be sent after a peace deal is finalized. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has repeatedly justified its actions in Ukraine by pointing to Kyiv’s increasing ties with the West and potential NATO membership.

Putin emphasized that foreign troops would be unnecessary if a long-term peace agreement is reached, noting: “If decisions are reached that will lead to peace, then there is no point in the presence of foreign troops on Ukrainian soil.”

The United States has given mixed signals regarding participation. Former President Donald Trump initially hinted at a combination of US air support and ground troops but later clarified that American soldiers would not be deployed. He has continued to stress the importance of peace negotiations between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, indicating support for peacekeeping measures without direct US military involvement.

Regarding talks with Zelensky, Putin expressed skepticism. Despite previously labeling Zelensky a “Nazi” a claim widely criticized given the Ukrainian president’s Jewish heritage Putin stated he sees little chance of agreeing on key issues. However, he noted that Russia is technically open to meetings in Moscow, assuring that proper working conditions and security would be provided.

This development underscores the delicate balance between NATO support for Ukraine and the risk of escalating tensions with Russia, as both sides navigate the path toward a possible resolution.