The Kremlin warned that any eventual presence of European troops in Ukraine would amount to a “war” against Russia.

The Kremlin reiterated on September 12 that any deployment of European troops to Ukraine would be considered an act of war against Russia. Russian officials stated that this position has been formally communicated to the international community as a definitive stance rather than a mere warning or red line. The declaration underscores the Russian government's ongoing effort to establish clear boundaries regarding Western military involvement in the conflict. By framing the potential presence of European forces as a direct escalation to war, Moscow seeks to deter foreign intervention and solidify its strategic position regarding the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine.