Russia warns Western troops deployed in Ukraine would be treated as combat targets

The Hindu
The Hindu
2h ago
Russia said any Western troops deployed in Ukraine under a proposed multinational force would be considered legitimate combat targets by the Russian Armed Forces.
Russia warns Western troops deployed in Ukraine would be treated as combat targets
A What happened
Russia said any troops sent to Ukraine by Western governments would be “legitimate combat targets” in the event Britain and France deploy a multinational force there under a ceasefire scenario. Britain and France signed a declaration of intent in Paris on January 6, 2026, on the future deployment under a “coalition of the willing.” Russia said Western military units, facilities, depots, and other infrastructure on Ukrainian territory would be classified as foreign intervention and a direct security threat to Russia and other European countries. The United States ruled out sending its own troops to Ukraine, and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said President Donald Trump “strongly stands behind” security protocols aimed at deterring future attacks on Ukraine.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Russia frames Western deployments as foreign intervention: Russia said Western military units and infrastructure in Ukraine would be classified as foreign intervention and treated as legitimate combat targets.

  • 2

    Britain and France describe a legal framework for operations in Ukraine: Keir Starmer said the declaration of intent would enable British, French, and partner forces to operate on Ukrainian soil, secure skies and seas, and regenerate Ukraine’s armed forces.

  • 3

    U.S. position separates troop deployments from security protocols: The United States ruled out sending troops, while its envoy said Donald Trump strongly supports security protocols aimed at deterring future attacks on Ukraine.

Takeaways

Russia publicly warned that any Western force deployed in Ukraine under the “coalition of the willing” plans would be treated as a legitimate target by Russian forces.

Topics

World & Politics International Affairs Diplomacy Conflicts Security & Defense

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