Putin warns Western nations against sending troops to Ukraine

Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Thursday delivered his State of the Nation address to Russian lawmakers, officials, and diplomats. During the speech, Putin warned Western leaders not to become more involved in the war in Ukraine by sending troops to support Kyiv. He said such a move would risk “tragic” consequences, including a possible global nuclear conflict. He discussed Russia’s nuclear capabilities to reach other countries. The speech came two weeks before the nation’s presidential election, which Putin is expected to win.

Who has suggested sending Western troops to Ukraine? French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné on Wednesday told France’s parliament that Western countries may consider sending troops to Ukraine to help with non-combat roles. His comments followed French President Emmanuel Macron’s statement on Monday that sending NATO troops to Ukraine should not be ruled out. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday said there are no plans to send NATO combat troops to Ukraine.

How have other countries responded to the idea? Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas told Politico that world leaders should discuss all possibilities for helping Ukraine win the war. Meanwhile, U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Tuesday said that no American combat troops would be sent to Ukraine. Britain, Germany, Poland, and other European nations have also reportedly distanced themselves from the idea of deploying military personnel.

Dig deeper: Read Carolina Lumetta’s report in The Stew about why House Republicans have resisted pressure thus far to aid Ukraine further.