Moscow is preparing for a potential scenario in which Western countries approve Ukrainian strikes deep into Russian territory using long-range weapons donated by the U.S. Russian President Vladimir Putin mentioned that they would have to make decisions if such a situation arises, indicating that they are considering possible responses. These weapons, including the U.S.’s ATACMS and the U.K. and France’s Storm Shadow missiles, have ranges that allow Ukraine to target Russian-controlled territory far from the border.
Despite ongoing conflict and tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Germany has refused to provide its Taurus missiles to Ukraine, similar to the Storm Shadow missiles. However, there are indications that Western countries may lift this ban, albeit not yet confirmed publicly. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, now lasting for over two and a half years, has strained relations between Russia and many Western nations. Ukraine heavily relies on support from the West in its efforts against Russian aggression.
Putin has emphasized that it is premature to discuss specific options for responding to potential Ukrainian strikes with long-range weapons. However, he suggested that the Russian military command is considering various strategies. Putin has expressed his concern about Western countries allowing Ukraine to use such weapons, warning that it would directly involve them in the conflict. He believes that this would change the nature of the conflict significantly, potentially leading NATO countries to war with Russia.
NATO has reiterated that it is not at war with Russia and is not a party to the conflict in Ukraine. The alliance aims to avoid escalating the situation further and has emphasized that they do not seek confrontation with Russia. However, Putin has argued that if Western countries permit Ukraine to utilize long-range weapons against Russia, it would constitute direct involvement in the conflict. He has vowed that Moscow will make appropriate decisions to address any threats posed by these actions from the Western nations.
It is evident that Putin perceives the potential use of long-range weapons by Ukraine as a significant threat to Russia. By enabling Ukraine to defend itself from Russian aggression, these weapons could potentially alter the course of the conflict in the region. While the situation remains complex and delicate, with various factors at play, Moscow is closely monitoring developments and formulating strategies to respond accordingly. The dynamics between Russia, Ukraine, and Western countries continue to evolve, with the possibility of heightened tensions and new challenges on the horizon.
