Putin warns US envoys that foreign troops in Ukraine are legitimate targets
Russian President Vladimir Putin told US envoys that any foreign military presence in Ukraine would threaten Russian security.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Thursday that any foreign troops deployed in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets. Speaking at the Kremlin in Moscow, Putin stated that such a presence would threaten the security of the Russian Federation, according to reports by The Times of India and ANI.
The meeting followed two days of trilateral negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi. During the discussions, Kushner noted that while Russia and Ukraine have agreed on many principles, they remain divided on how to implement a peace agreement.
Putin expressed a desire for an eternal peace settlement rather than a temporary pause. He also proposed a civilian evacuation mission in Konstantinovka, suggesting that Russian and Ukrainian human rights commissioners organise the effort. He noted that Russian forces hold the area and would require five days to clear mines to ensure safety.
Regarding European involvement, Kushner said European governments want to participate in talks. While Kushner suggested European nations select a single representative, Russian aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Europe has not yet agreed on a negotiator.
Separately, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that renewed speed limits on the US-operated Starshield satellite network are affecting military capabilities. Zelenskyy said the network's speed cap of 161 kilometres per hour prevents Ukrainian interceptor drones from catching up to Russian jet-powered Shahed drones.
