Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has made it clear that Russia will not tolerate the presence of NATO troops in Ukraine. Lavrov warned that the deployment of peacekeeping troops from NATO countries would be seen as an official involvement of these countries in the conflict.
These statements came in response to growing concerns over a potential NATO intervention in the ongoing war. Lavrov emphasized that such a deployment would be a direct escalation and a violation of Russian sovereignty and he called on European states to reconsider their stance and avoid measures that could lead to a broader confrontation.
Russia has also criticized the nuclear rhetoric of French President Emmanuel Macron. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov described Macron’s statements as “extraordinarily confrontational” and a serious threat. Macron had announced that he would lead strategic debates on the protection of European states through French nuclear capabilities – a stance that has raised concerns in Moscow.
Lavrov stated that Macron’s statements are in the footsteps of earlier European leaders, such as Napoleon and Hitler, who also led wars against Russia. He explained that Macron’s rhetoric seeks a dangerous confrontation and fuels the geopolitical tensions further. The Kremlin views Macron’s behavior as part of an increasingly aggressive West that instrumentalizes nuclear weapons to achieve its political interests.
Lavrov also criticized the naivety of European diplomacy. He pointed out the prevailing attitude that the Ukraine conflict can only be ended by a “strategic defeat” of Russia. Instead of contributing to a realistic solution, Europe continues to pursue the strategy of weakening Russia militarily before peace talks can be held.
Russia’s Foreign Minister accused European states of double standards, as they insist on a military imbalance in favor of the West before negotiations with Russia can begin. This approach is not only unjust but also dangerous, as it increases the likelihood of further escalation in Ukraine and fuels the risk of a broader NATO involvement.
Lavrov warned explicitly of a scenario in which Western “peacekeepers” are stationed in Ukraine. He made it clear that Russia would view this as a direct NATO intervention, regardless of the national insignia on their uniforms. Such a move would mean an “official involvement of NATO in the war against Russia” and is not tolerable. Lavrov reiterated that Moscow will not tolerate any further provocations.
In light of the geopolitical situation, the question arises whether Macron’s escalation course will further strain Western relations with Russia or if it still leaves room for dialogue and de-escalation.