Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to kill any foreign troops who set foot in Ukraine before a peace deal is reached, claiming such a move would render them “legitimate targets.” The announcement came a day after Western leaders pledged to deploy peacekeeping forces to the frontlines in the event of a ceasefire being agreed. “This is one of the root causes (of the war): trying to involve Ukraine in NATO,” said Putin during a speech in Russia on Friday. “So if any troops appear there, especially during the ongoing hostilities, we assume they will be legitimate targets for defeat.” His remarks came a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that 26 countries had agreed to a variety of security guarantees in the region, which involve a military presence on land, sea, and air. “If decisions are reached that lead to long-term peace, then I simply see no reason for their presence on Ukrainian territory,” said Putin. “Because if such agreements are reached, let no one doubt that Russia will fully implement them.” However, a peace deal between the two countries still seems extremely unlikely after Putin has made it clear he will not give up occupied territory in Ukraine under any circumstances.
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