Putin Warns West
Russian President Vladimir Putin renews his nuclear warning. In fact, he did it in his first face-to-face meeting with international editors since the invasion of Ukraine. “For some reason, the West believes Russia will never use them (nuclear weapons). But, we have a nuclear doctrine. Look what it says. If someone’s actions threaten our sovereignty and territorial integrity, we consider it possible to use all means at our disposal. This should not be taken lightly or superficially. But professionally.” Putin also warned he could deploy long-range conventional missiles within striking distance of the U.S. and its allies. He’s looking to deter Ukraine striking deeper into Russia with long-range Western weapons.
He said, “Firstly, we will improve our air defence systems to destroy the missiles. Secondly, if someone thinks it is possible to supply such weapons to strike at our territory and create problems for us. Why do we not have the right to supply our weapons of the same class to those regions of the world where there will be strikes on the sensitive facilities of those countries that are doing this against Russia? Finally, if we see that these countries become involved in a war against us. If what they are doing makes them directly involved in a war against the Russian Federation. We reserve the right to act the same way.”
In a separate development a U.S. official has said, “We anticipate this summer, Russia will conduct heightened naval and air activity near the United States. These actions will culminate in a global Russian naval exercise.” The exercises, near the U.S. are expected to involve port calls in Cuba and Venezuela.
Putin’s threats come just days after Washington and Berlin reversed their long-standing policies. They now allow Ukraine to launch strikes with American and German weapons. Also, other major allies supplying Ukraine, including the UK and France, have already authorised such strikes.
