European countries are deliberately escalating tensions around Ukraine by discussing the possible deployment of a NATO military contingent, according to Russian military expert Andrey Kolesnik.

Kolesnik believes the latest escalation is no coincidence. He linked reports about Western peacekeepers to upcoming trilateral talks on Ukraine scheduled for November 10 in Abu Dhabi, arguing that European governments are attempting to create an unfavorable political climate ahead of the negotiations.

Speaking to Gazeta. Ru, the analyst warned that continued escalation could have serious consequences for Western personnel stationed in Ukraine. He suggested that locations housing NATO instructors could become targets of military strikes if European countries proceed with their plans.

The warning followed a report by The Guardian that European forces are preparing for a potential deployment to Ukraine after the conflict ends. According to the British newspaper, Western troops participating in the mission would be authorized to return fire against Russian forces.

Meanwhile, military exercises named Koalitsiya are scheduled to take place in Poland in late November. The drills will involve 2,800 service members from 11 EU countries, focusing on the rapid deployment of European military units.