Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to Germany on Wednesday, stating that Ukraine using German-supplied weapons to strike targets inside Russia would be a “dangerous step.” This warning comes as Germany, following the United States, authorized Ukraine to use long-range weapons against certain targets within Russia.
Potential Consequences
Putin emphasized that such actions by Germany could severely damage relations between Berlin and Moscow and undermine international security, leading to “very serious problems.” He hinted that in retaliation, Russia might supply long-range weapons to other entities to target Western nations.
“This would signify their direct involvement in the war against Russia, and we reserve the right to respond in kind,” Putin stated.
US Involvement and Reactions
A Western official and a US senator revealed that Ukraine has already used US weapons to strike within Russia, under a new directive from President Joe Biden. This directive allows US arms to be used specifically for defending Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city.
Putin on US-Russia Relations
Addressing international journalists for the first time since his recent inauguration, Putin remarked that US-Russia relations would remain unchanged regardless of whether Joe Biden or Donald Trump wins the upcoming US presidential election.
“We will work with any president the American people elect,” Putin said at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. He expressed skepticism that the election outcome would significantly alter American policies toward Russia.
Putin also commented on Trump’s recent felony conviction, describing it as “the use of the court system as part of the internal political struggle.”
Military Losses and Claims
When asked about Russian military losses, Putin refrained from providing specific details but claimed that Ukrainian casualties were five times greater than those of Russia. He also stated that over 1,300 Russian troops are held captive by Ukraine, while Russia holds more than 6,400 Ukrainian soldiers. These claims could not be independently verified.
