Russia rejects NATO troops deployment in Ukraine as security guarantees

MOSCOW -- Russia does not accept the deployment of EU or NATO military forces on Ukrainian territory as part of security guarantees, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said on Sunday.

"We have stated that this is unacceptable, no NATO membership and no foreign forces," Grushko told RIA Novosti. "There is no difference whether a French corporal is wearing a cap with 'NATO' or 'EU' written on it. That does not change the situation. We have not deviated from our position."

Grushko's comments came after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier that current security guarantee proposals include plans to deploy military contingents from several European countries, mainly France and Britain, to Ukraine, with support from Washington. Rubio did not provide details on the nature of US support.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has repeatedly warned that any scenario involving the deployment of troops from NATO member states to Ukraine is categorically unacceptable for Russia and could lead to a sharp escalation of tensions.

Moscow has also criticized statements from Britain and other European countries about the possible deployment of such contingents, describing them as provocations that encourage the continuation of hostilities.