In a recent interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that Moscow is preparing various strategies to counter potential long-range strikes by Ukraine, should the United States and NATO allies provide Kyiv with advanced Western weaponry. The remarks, published on Sunday, underscore the escalating tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict.
Putin, speaking to state TV reporter Pavel Zarubin, stated, “The Russian defense ministry is considering how to respond to the possible long-range strikes on Russian territory; it will offer a range of responses.” This statement highlights Russia’s concern over Ukraine’s requests for long-range missiles, such as the U.S. ATACMS and British Storm Shadows, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has been advocating for to diminish Russia’s ability to launch attacks.
When questioned about whether NATO countries were heeding his warnings that supplying Ukraine with such missiles would effectively draw them into the conflict, Putin replied, “They have not told me anything about it, but I hope they have heard. Because, of course, we will have to make some decisions for ourselves, too.”
While he refrained from detailing the specifics of Russia’s potential responses, Putin emphasized the necessity of a calculated reaction if long-range strikes are authorized. He pointed out that the advanced equipment sought by Ukraine requires expertise that he claims the Ukrainian army lacks, stating, “The Ukrainian army is not capable of doing this independently; it cannot.”