Vladimir Putin has issued a chilling warning that Russia could resort to nuclear weapons if Ukraine uses Western-supplied arms to strike deep into Russian territory. The Russian leader's stark comments have sent shockwaves across the international community, raising fears of an unprecedented escalation in the ongoing conflict.
A Dangerous Escalation
Speaking at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin claimed that some NATO countries were "playing with fire" by allowing Ukraine to use their weapons against Russia. "If they supply weapons to strike our territory, we reserve the right to respond asymmetrically," the Kremlin strongman declared.
Western Reactions
Western leaders have condemned Putin's threats, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling them "irresponsible" and "dangerous". Meanwhile, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps warned that such rhetoric "only serves to escalate tensions further".
Expert Analysis
Military analysts suggest Putin's comments represent a calculated move to deter increased Western support for Ukraine. "This is classic nuclear brinkmanship," explained Dr. Emily Roberts from the Royal United Services Institute. "Putin wants to create just enough fear to limit NATO's involvement without triggering an actual nuclear exchange."
The Global Stakes
The situation has drawn comparisons to the Cuban Missile Crisis, with some experts warning that we may be entering the most dangerous phase of nuclear diplomacy since the Cold War. The UN Secretary-General has called for immediate de-escalation talks between all parties involved.
