Putin Declares Peace Deal with Ukraine “Impossible,” Threatens UK Troops

Vladimir Putin has declared it “impossible” to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, shortly after inviting him to Moscow for talks. During a press conference at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin escalated his rhetoric, warning that British and NATO peacekeeping forces deployed to Ukraine would be considered “legitimate targets.”

Putin’s comments come on the heels of a meeting in Paris, where Ukraine and its allies, part of the Coalition of the Willing, discussed the potential for sending peacekeeping troops if a permanent ceasefire is established. A total of twenty-six countries expressed willingness to contribute forces to ensure border security during this uncertain time.

In his remarks, Putin stated, “If any [Western] troops appear there, especially now during military operations, we proceed from the fact that these will be legitimate targets for their destruction.” This statement reflects a heightened tension in a conflict that has already resulted in significant loss of life and infrastructure since it began in February 2022.

Despite Putin’s aggressive tone, he extended an invitation to Zelensky, claiming, “The Ukrainian side wants this meeting and offers this meeting. I said: ‘I am ready, please come, we will definitely provide conditions for work and security.’” He insisted that Zelensky’s safety would be “100 percent” guaranteed in Moscow, asserting that the capital is the best location for discussions.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized Zelensky for not responding to the invitation, framing it as an opportunity for dialogue rather than as a demand for capitulation. Yet, Putin has expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of productive negotiations, suggesting that no agreement can be reached on key issues, given the current state of affairs.

The ongoing conflict has intensified, with reports of extensive Russian missile and drone strikes targeting various locations in Ukraine, including the city of Druzhkivka. In a significant retaliatory move, Ukraine targeted the Ryazan oil refinery, located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Moscow, causing substantial damage and igniting a fire.

As the conflict continues to unfold, a recently released map displayed during a military briefing in Moscow has sparked concerns, as it appears to extend Russia’s claimed territory into additional regions of Ukraine, including Mykolaiv and Odesa. This development raises alarms regarding Russia’s territorial ambitions and further complicates the prospect of peace.

The situation remains fluid, with international leaders advocating for de-escalation. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently addressed British and Albanian troops in Tirana, emphasizing the importance of stability and security in the region.

As both nations grapple with the consequences of this ongoing war, the potential for negotiation seems increasingly fraught, with each side entrenched in their respective positions. The world watches closely as the conflict continues to evolve, shaping the geopolitical landscape in Europe and beyond.