Media Wire Express Correspondent
The deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev has strongly criticized French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for their stance on NATO peacekeeping in Ukraine.
Medvedev’s remarks came after the two leaders suggested the possibility of deploying NATO forces to assist Ukraine.
In his comments, Medvedev accused both leaders of ignoring Russia’s clear position that peacekeepers should not come from NATO countries. He warned that providing military support to Ukraine could lead to a direct confrontation with NATO, further escalating the conflict. Medvedev bluntly called out Macron and Starmer, accusing them of playing “dumb” when it comes to the realities of the situation.
This harsh criticism followed a speech by Macron, who labeled Russia a growing threat to Europe and hinted at expanding France’s military deterrence across Europe. Macron also proposed discussions with European military leaders about potential peacekeeping missions in Ukraine after the war. Medvedev took offense to Macron’s comments, dismissing them as hollow threats.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin’s official spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, called Macron’s rhetoric “provocative” and suggested it could only make the war worse. On the other hand, Medvedev took the criticism even further, mocking Macron by calling him “Micron,” a term he has used in the past to belittle the French president.
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At the same time, Prime Minister Starmer has shown strong support for Ukraine, recently hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in London. Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to assisting Ukraine, offering a significant loan to boost Ukraine’s defense capabilities. However, Medvedev views such gestures as further escalation, and tensions are clearly rising.
As European leaders push for greater unity in their support of Ukraine, the debate over NATO’s involvement continues to divide global powers. While the UK and France remain determined to back Ukraine, Russia has made it clear that any military intervention by NATO would be seen as a direct threat. It remains to be seen how these political clashes will unfold as the conflict drags on.
