Putin Warns of Arming Nations Capable of Striking Western Interests

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to the West, criticizing the delivery of long-range weapons to Ukraine and threatening to arm other countries with similar weapons to target Western interests. Putin’s comments came during a rare press conference with foreign news outlets, where he expressed his concerns about the escalating situation in Ukraine.

Putin condemned the decision by several Western countries, including the United States, to provide Ukraine with the capability to strike targets inside Russia. He described this move as a “grave miscalculation” and warned that Moscow could respond by supplying weapons of the same class to regions where Western countries have sensitive facilities.

The Russian leader emphasized the dangers of delivering arms to a warzone, especially when those weapons are being controlled by external forces. He singled out Germany for supplying tanks to Ukraine, which he said had a profound impact on Russian sentiment due to the historical legacy of World War II.

Putin also addressed the issue of military casualties in the conflict, stating that Russia had not initiated the war in Ukraine and attributing the conflict to a pro-Western revolution in 2014. He declined to disclose the number of Russian battlefield losses but claimed that Ukraine’s losses were five times higher.

The sensitive topic of military casualties in Russia was highlighted, where criticism of the conflict is prohibited, and spreading false information about the army carries severe penalties. Putin also commented on the killing of AFP video journalist Arman Soldin in Ukraine, expressing readiness to assist in the investigation.

In addition, Putin was questioned about the potential impact of a victory for former U.S. President Donald Trump or current President Joe Biden on U.S.-Russia relations. He dismissed the significance of the outcome but criticized the criminal charges against Trump as politically motivated, undermining the perception of the United States as a leading democracy.

The Russian leader also mentioned ongoing discussions with the United States regarding a possible prisoner exchange involving jailed U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on espionage charges. Putin assured that the relevant services in both countries were in constant contact and would decide on the basis of reciprocity.