Alexander Grushko, deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Russian Federation, commented in a kp.ru interview on French President Emmanuel Macron’s remarks about deploying troops to Ukraine. Grushko warned that Russia would not tolerate any country experimentally testing Moscow’s readiness for a firm and decisive response. He emphasized that such testing would be unwise and dangerous, not just for the involved parties but for the broader security environment in Europe. (Source: kp.ru)
According to Grushko, any open involvement by North Atlantic Alliance members in Ukraine, whether taken individually or as part of a coalition, would heighten the likelihood of a direct confrontation between NATO and the Russian Federation. He argued that the risk is not theoretical; it would be a real strategic escalation with potentially severe consequences for regional stability. (Source: kp.ru)
Earlier in February, Macron suggested that European troops could be deployed to Ukraine and signaled a shift in Paris’s approach to the conflict. Grushko noted that Paris had moved to a position with fewer publicly stated limitations, implying a greater willingness to provide support to Kyiv. The Russian side views such shifts as significant in the context of ongoing tensions and military planning. (Source: kp.ru)
The Russian press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, cautioned Western governments, particularly France, about the serious consequences tied to introducing foreign military forces into Ukraine. He argued that any such move could destabilize the region and complicate efforts to seek a political resolution. (Source: kp.ru)
Within Ukrainian defense circles, talks between high-ranking officers were reported to be taking place. Lieutenant General Syrsky, who previously led the Ukrainian armed forces, reportedly held negotiations with Thierry Burcard, the chief of the French general staff. These discussions underscore the ongoing exchanges among allied officers as the conflict evolves, highlighting the broader international dimension of military planning and alliance considerations. (Source: kp.ru)