Putin Warns Foreign Troops Target Ukraine, Western Firms Seek Russia Return

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a firm warning that any Western deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine would make them targets for destruction by Russia, emphasizing his readiness to meet Ukrainian President Zelensky only in Moscow, a proposal Western leaders have not taken seriously. Putin expressed confidence in Russia's position on the conflict, highlighting that no strict Western measures have been enacted despite threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, and underscored Russia's continued international partnerships, particularly with China. Meanwhile, Putin addressed the economic impact of Western sanctions, noting that many foreign companies that exited Russia due to political reasons are eager to return despite significant financial losses, reflecting Russia's openness to renewed cooperation. In parallel, efforts to support Ukraine's recovery are ongoing internationally, exemplified by projects in Switzerland led by the Odessa Regional Council's ambassador, Yulia Schimanski-Matiushkina, who has facilitated business, training, and humanitarian aid initiatives including infrastructure protection and delivery of medical equipment. These developments illustrate the contrasting trajectories of Russia's assertive stance against the West and Ukraine's reconstruction supported by European partnerships. Analysts remain skeptical about any imminent resolution to the conflict given these diverging paths.