Russia is gearing up for a prolonged confrontation with the United States as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov.
Ready in Every Way
The ongoing war in Ukraine, now lasting more than two and a half years, has significantly strained relations between Moscow and the West.
Some experts liken the current crisis to the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, when the U.S. and the Soviet Union came perilously close to nuclear war.
Ryabkov emphasized that Russia does not have any illusions about its relationship with the U.S., pointing out that a strong anti-Russian sentiment exists within the U.S. political establishment, according to Hotnews.
"We must prepare for a long-term confrontation with this country. We are ready for this in every way," Ryabkov said, according to state media outlet RIA.
Sends Warning Signals to Adversaries
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been urging Western allies to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles. These weapons would allow Ukraine to target Russian military operations on Russian soil and curb Moscow's capacity to launch attacks. Russia sees this as an escalation, with President Vladimir Putin issuing stern warnings.
Last week, Putin warned the West that Russia would not hesitate to use nuclear weapons if attacked with conventional missiles. Moscow would consider any attack on its territory, especially one supported by a nuclear-armed power, as a "joint attack."
Ryabkov noted that Russia has been sending "warning signals" to its adversaries to ensure they do not underestimate Moscow's resolve. These statements further illustrate the gravity of the current standoff, with both sides preparing for a potentially long and dangerous period of confrontation.
