Putin Warns of Supplying Long-Range Weapons for Strikes on Western Targets

President Vladimir Putin of Russia issued a stern warning to Germany on Wednesday, stating that Ukraine's use of German weapons to strike targets within Russia would be considered a "dangerous step." This declaration came amidst escalating tensions, as Moscow hinted at the possibility of retaliating by supplying long-range weapons to other entities capable of targeting Western interests globally. Putin's remarks underscored the potential for such actions to further deteriorate international security and provoke "very serious problems."

Putin elaborated on the implications of Western nations' direct involvement in the conflict, suggesting that using Western-supplied weapons against Russian territory would necessitate military personnel from those countries to control the missiles and select targets. He indicated that Russia could respond in an "asymmetrical" manner, potentially arming other regions with similar capabilities to strike back at sensitive facilities belonging to those Western countries.

The recent decision by Germany and the United States to authorize Ukraine to target Russian soil with long-range weapons they provided has sparked significant controversy. Putin expressed particular concern over the delivery of German tanks to Ukraine, highlighting the profound impact such actions could have on Russian-German relations. He warned that missile strikes on Russian facilities would irreparably damage these ties.

Amid these developments, it was revealed that Ukraine has utilized American weaponry to conduct strikes inside Russia, following newly approved guidance from President Joe Biden. This strategy allows for the limited use of American arms to defend Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. The disclosure of this information came from a Western official and a US senator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Addressing international journalists for the first time since his inauguration to a fifth term, Putin also touched upon Russia-US relations. He stated that the outcome of the upcoming American presidential election, whether in favor of Biden or Donald Trump, would not alter the dynamic between the two nations. Putin's comments came during his appearance at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, an event traditionally used to promote Russia's development and attract investors.

During this forum, Putin faced inquiries on various subjects, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. When questioned about Russian military losses, he refrained from providing specifics but claimed that Ukrainian casualties were significantly higher than those of Russia. He also mentioned that Ukraine holds over 1,300 Russian troops captive, while Russia has more than 6,400 Ukrainian soldiers in detention. These figures have not been independently verified.

The St Petersburg International Economic Forum has historically been an opportunity for Putin to engage with journalists and showcase Russia's advancements. However, this year marked a departure from previous sessions as Putin had not taken questions from Western journalists at this event since the commencement of military actions in Ukraine. Following sanctions imposed on Moscow due to its involvement in Ukraine, journalists from countries deemed unfriendly by Russia were excluded from last year's forum, along with Western officials and investors.