The unity of the Western alliance is being severely tested by Vladimir Putin’s threat to go to war over any deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine. His declaration that such forces would be “legitimate targets” is a calculated move to divide and intimidate Kyiv’s allies.
The source of the tension is a 26-nation plan, championed by France, to provide Ukraine with postwar security guarantees, including a military presence. While this is seen as vital by Ukraine, Putin’s threat has turned it into a major point of contention within the West.
The test is already revealing deep divisions. Key NATO members like Germany, Spain, and Italy have refused to commit soldiers, fearing a direct conflict with Russia. This has forced the plan’s proponents to water down their ambitions, moving from a peacekeeping mission to a more limited support role.
This test of unity comes as the diplomatic path to peace remains blocked. With no negotiations underway, the focus has shifted to military and security arrangements, where the lack of a common Western position is most starkly exposed.