Zakharova threatens the West over Ukraine

Zakharova says Russia will consider deployment of Western troops in Ukraine a «foreign intervention»

Russia will qualify the deployment of Western troops and military facilities on the territory of Ukraine as a foreign intervention, which allegedly poses a threat to Russia and other European countries. This was stated by a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova.

According to her, any foreign units and related infrastructure will be considered «legitimate military targets» for the Russian army. The statement came amid discussions in the West about possible formats of security support for Ukraine.

Details of the case

Maria Zakharova voiced a number of conditions under which, according to the Russian side, a «peaceful settlement» is possible. Among them:

• Ukraine's return to non-aligned status;

• demilitarisation and the so-called «denazification»;

• recognition of the «territorial realities» claimed by Moscow.

She also noted that the goals set, according to the Russian side, will be achieved «either through political and diplomatic means or within the framework of the MOU».

The Ukrainian side and international partners have repeatedly stressed that such rhetoric is an element of information pressure and has no legal basis in international law.

Context.

The topic of possible involvement of foreign military contingents or the creation of additional security mechanisms for Ukraine is periodically discussed in the EU and NATO countries against the backdrop of the ongoing war, attacks on energy infrastructure and the deteriorating security situation in the region.

International analysts point out that such statements by Moscow are aimed at deterring Ukraine's partners and putting political pressure on European governments. At the same time, Ukraine insists on increased international assistance and security guarantees as key conditions for stability in Europe.