Russian President Vladimir Putin has drawn a new red line in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, warning that the use of long-range missiles against Russian territory could escalate into a broader war involving NATO.
No Infinite Patience
Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's former president and current deputy chairman of the Security Council, emphasized the gravity of the situation in a recent Telegram post.
He stated that while a nuclear response is a complex and irreversible decision, Russia’s patience is not infinite. Medvedev’s comments reflect Russia’s increasing frustration with the conflict's progress and international involvement, according to 20Minutos.
Putin has consistently claimed that Ukraine lacks the technical capability to launch long-range missiles into Russia without Western intelligence support. This assertion points to the critical role that U.S. and U.K. satellite data play in Ukraine’s military operations.
Discussions among Western leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and U.K. officials, have focused on how to address Ukraine’s requests without directly engaging in the conflict themselves.
Respond With Increased Bombings
The Kremlin has previously set various red lines, including attacks on Crimea and the bridge connecting it to the mainland. Despite these warnings, Ukrainian forces have continued to strike deep within Russian territory, including recent drone attacks on the Kremlin.
Analysts note that while Russia has responded with increased bombings, Putin has yet to make drastic military decisions.
As tensions rise, Russian hardliners like Medvedev advocate for a more aggressive stance, including potential use of advanced weaponry or nuclear options. This rhetoric is part of a broader strategy to deter Western support for Ukraine and underscore the high stakes of the conflict.
The White House has responded by maintaining its current policy on long-range missile use, emphasizing that there are no changes in how the U.S. engages with the situation. Meanwhile, Russian officials continue to warn of severe consequences if Western nations cross Moscow’s red lines
