"Putin warns Western forces in Ukraine are 'legitimate targets' amid European security pledges"

Putin Claims Western Forces in Ukraine Would Be 'Legitimate Targets,' Renews Offer for Moscow Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed recent proposals regarding Ukraine, stating at an economic forum in Vladivostok that any Western military presence in the country would be viewed as "legitimate targets."

"If foreign forces are deployed there, especially during active combat, we will regard them as acceptable targets," Putin said.

Russia has repeatedly opposed the idea of external troops in Ukraine, maintaining that such a move would be unacceptable and threaten its own security.

Putin further stated, "If agreements are made that ensure lasting peace, then their presence in Ukraine loses all purpose," adding that Russia would "fully adhere" to any deal reached.

He also reiterated his proposal—previously dismissed—to organize future peace discussions in Moscow, asserting that necessary arrangements and security would be ensured.

Additionally, Putin dismissed the possibility of holding these talks in a different location.

"If they propose meeting elsewhere rather than in Moscow, I believe such demands would be unreasonable," he said.