Putin made the declaration at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on Friday.
His remarks came just a day after European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine, with France's President Emmanuel Macron announcing that 26 countries are ready to contribute troops or security support once a ceasefire is achieved.
Addressing delegates, Putin was unequivocal. 'If foreign troops appear on Ukrainian territory during the fighting, they will be legitimate targets for our forces. And even after peace, we see no reason for their presence,' he said.
The Kremlin leader argued that outside military involvement would only escalate tensions and undermine future stability. According to Russian officials, Moscow does not view such deployments as peacekeeping but as hostile participation in the conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed allied commitments, insisting that international backing is essential for his country's survival.
'Ukraine will have security on land, at sea, and in the air. These guarantees are vital for our people and for peace in the region,' he said following consultations with European leaders.
According to Zelenskyy, the multinational effort would not only deter further Russian aggression but also create the conditions for long-term peace and stability in Eastern Europe.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/putin-threatens-response-to-foreign-troop-presence-in-ukraine
