Russia seeks ‘ironclad’ vow that Ukraine kept out of NATO, foreign troops stay out

The Kremlin is pushing for an “ironclad” guarantee that Ukraine will not be allowed to join NATO, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko. In an interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia, Grushko emphasized the need for a neutral status for Ukraine and the refusal of NATO countries to accept it into the alliance as part of any agreement to end the fighting.

Grushko’s comments come as the Trump administration works to broker a deal to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine. Last week, Ukraine accepted a 30-day cease-fire proposal negotiated with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has made it clear that any agreement must include crucial conditions, including the prevention of Ukraine’s NATO membership.

U.S. special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff revealed that Trump and Putin are expected to have a phone call this week. Witkoff described his recent meeting with Putin in Moscow as “positive” and “solution-based.” Grushko reiterated Russia’s opposition to the deployment of European troops to Ukraine, expressing concern over the potential consequences of such a move.

While some NATO countries, including Britain, France, and Australia, have signaled openness to sending a peacekeeping force to Ukraine, Grushko warned against any such deployment. He argued that the presence of foreign troops in the conflict zone could escalate tensions and complicate the situation further.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have both expressed willingness to send troops to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping force. However, Grushko stressed that a sustainable solution to the conflict can only be achieved if Ukraine is kept out of NATO and foreign military contingents are prevented from entering the region.

In order to ensure the security of Ukraine and the broader region, Grushko emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict. By preventing Ukraine’s NATO membership and keeping foreign troops at bay, he believes that long-term stability and peace can be achieved in the region.

As diplomatic efforts continue to unfold, it remains to be seen whether a lasting resolution to the conflict in Ukraine can be reached. The stakes are high, and the demands of both Russian and Western officials will need to be carefully considered in order to find a path towards peace.