Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a strong warning that any foreign military forces deployed to Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets by Russia, raising fresh concerns over the future of peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv.
The warning came during a meeting at the Kremlin with US representatives Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, where Putin maintained a firm position on Russia’s demands. The Russian leader reportedly insisted on gaining full control over four Ukrainian regions that Moscow claims to have annexed and rejected any proposal involving the deployment of foreign peacekeeping forces in Ukraine.
Putin described the presence of foreign troops in Ukraine as a “continuation of war” rather than a step toward peace, signaling that Moscow remains unwilling to compromise on key issues.
The remarks have weakened hopes of an immediate breakthrough in diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier suggested that there was a “window of opportunity” to reach a peace agreement before the end of 2026.
US Envoys Continue Diplomatic Efforts
The visit by US envoys Witkoff and Kushner to Moscow was part of ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a possible framework for negotiations. Officials familiar with the discussions said the talks also focused on bringing European countries more actively into the peace process.
After the Kremlin meeting, Witkoff confirmed that European representatives would participate in future negotiations.
“They are our partners, and it is important for them to be involved,” Witkoff said while leaving Moscow.
The US officials are expected to travel to Dublin, Ireland, to meet President Zelenskyy and brief him on their discussions with Russian officials.
Russia Pushes European Security Debate
During the talks, Moscow appeared to expand the discussion beyond the Ukraine conflict by focusing on broader European security arrangements. However, several European leaders expressed concerns that this could divert attention from the immediate issue of ending hostilities.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said existing security agreements, including the Helsinki Accords and the Budapest Memorandum, already provide a framework for European security.
She argued that the main issue was Russia’s failure to respect international commitments and warned that discussions about a new security structure could become a distraction without a ceasefire.
Europe Divided Over Negotiating Role
The United States and Russia have encouraged European nations to appoint a single representative to participate in future negotiations. Putin said that appointing a chief negotiator for Europe would help create a four-way dialogue.
However, EU leaders remain divided over the proposal. Some officials believe the European Union should be represented through its institutions rather than by one individual.
Kallas suggested that she, along with European Council President António Costa, could represent the bloc in discussions.
French President Emmanuel Macron said the focus should remain on the substance of negotiations rather than the format, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the priority was first getting Putin to engage directly in talks.
Ukraine Raises Alarm Over Starlink Restrictions
Meanwhile, Ukraine has raised concerns over reported restrictions affecting Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite service, which Ukrainian forces rely on for battlefield communications.
President Zelenskyy accused the restrictions on Starlink’s military-linked Starshield system of weakening Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian drone attacks. Ukrainian officials said the limitations had affected operations near the frontline and in Russian-controlled areas.
Zelenskyy claimed the restrictions were making it harder for Ukrainian forces to intercept advanced Russian drones and suggested the disruption appeared intentional rather than a technical failure.
“Ukraine has contacted Washington for an explanation,” Zelenskyy said, adding that the service limitations were harming Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The latest developments highlight growing uncertainty around diplomatic efforts, as Russia maintains its hardline position while Ukraine seeks continued international support amid ongoing battlefield challenges.
