Putin Warns West Over Long-Range Missiles to Ukraine; Oversees Nuclear Exercises with Missile Launches

Oct 29, 2024, 12:55 PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will respond if Western nations supply Ukraine with long-range missiles capable of striking deep into Russian territory. Putin stated that he has instructed the Russian Defense Ministry to develop strategies to counter such threats, emphasizing that Moscow would consider various responses if Kyiv's backers proceed with aiding Ukraine in this manner. Amid these tensions, Putin oversaw a strategic nuclear deterrence forces exercise, which included ballistic and cruise missile launches. He declared that while the use of nuclear weapons is an extreme measure to ensure the country's security, it remains a possibility, and Russia needs its nuclear forces to be prepared. Putin also noted that Russia does not wish to participate in an arms race.