Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that any foreign military forces deployed to Ukraine will be considered legitimate targets for Russian action. The stark warning was issued on September 5, 2025, during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.
Putin's remarks were a direct response to recent initiatives by Ukraine's allies, particularly France. French President Emmanuel Macron had announced that 26 countries pledged to deploy troops as a "reassurance force" once the conflict concludes. Macron stated these forces would aim to prevent future aggression and ensure Ukraine's lasting security, operating on land, sea, or in the air, but not on the front lines.
However, Russia's stance, as articulated by Putin, views any foreign military presence, especially during active hostilities, as a direct challenge. "If some troops appear there, especially now during the fighting, we proceed from the premise that they will be legitimate targets," Putin stated at the forum. He further elaborated that if long-term peace agreements are reached, there would be no justification for a continued foreign military presence in Ukraine. This position underscores Russia's firm opposition to any Western military involvement in Ukraine's security architecture, viewing it as a threat to its own national security.
The Eastern Economic Forum, held annually in Vladivostok, serves as a significant platform for Russia to foster economic ties and discuss geopolitical strategies with Asia-Pacific partners. Putin's participation, following visits to China, highlights Russia's focus on strengthening its international alliances and projecting its influence in the region. Analysts suggest that Putin's pronouncements are designed to deter Western intervention and assert Russia's red lines in the ongoing conflict. The declaration also reflects a broader geopolitical strategy where Russia seeks to shape the terms of any future peace settlement, emphasizing its role as a key player in regional security.
The commitment from 26 nations, as announced by Macron, represents a significant collective effort by Ukraine's supporters to provide tangible security assurances. However, the effectiveness and ultimate deployment of such a force remain contingent on the evolving dynamics of the conflict and the broader diplomatic landscape. The situation highlights a critical juncture where diplomatic efforts for long-term peace are being shaped by stark military pronouncements. The underlying tension between the desire for security guarantees and the threat of escalation creates a complex environment, where each statement and action carries significant weight in the pursuit of stability and resolution.