The New York Times has suggested that Western countries may consider sending their troops to Ukraine without seeking Moscow’s approval. According to the publication, such a move could take place once active hostilities have ended.

Analysts cited in the report noted that the deployment of Western forces after the fighting could directly impact prospects for a peace settlement. In their view, Russia would likely refuse to sign any agreement if the possibility of foreign troops on Ukrainian territory remains on the table.

Commenting on the discussion in the West, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev underlined that NATO forces could not be regarded as peacekeepers, adding that Moscow would not recognize such «security guarantees» for Kyiv.

Military experts also pointed out that, should a decision on deploying a peacekeeping contingent be taken, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron might attempt to use that presence to provoke Russia.