Putin Labels Belgorod Shelling a 'Terrorist Act', Vows Retaliation Against Ukraine"
Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the December 30 attack on the city of Belgorod, labeling it a terrorist act. In a recent meeting with wounded military personnel, Putin declared that Russia would respond to this act with retaliation against Ukraine.
During the meeting, Putin described the nature of the attack on Belgorod, highlighting the use of MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems), which he characterized as "indiscriminate weapons." According to Putin, these were used to target the city center, representing a deliberate attack on civilians.
Putin expressed intense anger over the incident, stating that he is "seething" with rage due to the attack. He maintained that Russia's counter-actions have been and will continue to be aimed at military targets in response to Ukraine's aggression.
Putin articulated his view on Ukraine's strategy, suggesting that the attack was meant to intimidate Russia and sow doubt within the country. He vowed that Russia would escalate its strikes and emphasized that no crime against the civilian population would go unpunished.
This development marks a significant escalation in rhetoric from the Russian side and indicates a potential intensification of the conflict. Putin's strong words suggest a firm stance against what he perceives as aggression from Ukraine, setting the stage for further military actions.