Kremlin rejects NATO troop deployment in Ukraine, warns of escalation

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has firmly rejected any plans to deploy NATO forces in Ukraine, stressing that Russian military operations will continue to prevent such a move. In comments reported by dunya.com, Peskov said any attempt to station NATO troops on Ukrainian soil would be viewed by Moscow as an unacceptable escalation.

Speaking to reporters in Moscow, Peskov claimed the European Union is planning to send NATO soldiers to Ukraine, describing this as something Russia cannot allow. He added that Russia is conducting its "special military operation" specifically to prevent a NATO presence in Ukraine.

Relations with the UK, India, and military exercises

In other remarks, Peskov said he does not expect relations between Russia and the UK to improve following Andy Burnham's appointment as British prime minister, adding that there are no plans for any contact with him in the near future, according to dunya.com.

Regarding Russian military drills off the British coast, Peskov noted that all exercises conducted by the Russian armed forces comply with international maritime law.

On the killing of four Indian sailors in an attack on Ukraine's Odessa port, Peskov said communication with the Indian side is ongoing, and Russia is explaining its position on the Ukraine crisis and attacks targeting ships transporting weapons to Kyiv.

Responses to Ukrainian accusations and possible US official visits

Peskov denied Ukrainian claims that the Russian e-commerce platform Wildberries is supplying the Russian military, emphasizing that the government is monitoring losses suffered by small and medium-sized businesses as a result of Ukrainian attacks, according to dunya.com.

Asked about reports that US FBI chief Kash Patel had visited Russia, Peskov said he had no information on the matter, noting that such visits are typically confidential.