Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to NATO countries about the risks of allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied weapons to launch attacks deep inside Russia, stating this could lead to a global conflict.
In a statement made in Moscow on May 28, Putin expressed concerns over the involvement of NATO countries in Europe, suggesting that their support for Ukraine in using Western weaponry to target Russia could escalate into a broader global conflict. This situation arises as the deadliest European land war since World War Two continues beyond its second year, with Putin increasingly vocal about the potential for a global crisis.
During a discussion reported by The Economist, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg indicated that some NATO members are in favor of Ukraine having the capability to strike deeper into Russian territory, a stance not shared by the United States.
“Constant escalation can lead to serious consequences,” Putin said during a press conference in Tashkent. He questioned how the United States would respond in such a scenario, given the parity between the U.S. and Russia in strategic weapons.
Putin further mentioned that any Ukrainian offensive actions against Russia would necessitate Western support, including satellite intelligence and military aid, thereby directly involving Western nations. He also highlighted the potential consequences of deploying French troops to Ukraine, suggesting it could move the situation towards global conflict.
Highlighting the vulnerability of smaller European nations within NATO, Putin cautioned them about the implications of their geographical size and dense populations when considering actions that could provoke Russia.
The ongoing conflict has drastically deteriorated relations between Russia and the West, marking the worst fallout in six decades, and escalating tensions to a critically dangerous phase. Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, the conflict has led to significant casualties among Ukrainian civilians, widespread displacement, and extensive destruction across cities and towns.
Amidst Russia’s territorial advances, including a new offensive in the Kharkiv region, there is growing debate in the West about further support for Ukraine, following substantial aid and military assistance already provided.
While Western leaders and Ukraine downplay the potential of an expanded conflict involving NATO and Russia, Ukrainian officials argue for the necessity of strikes within Russian territory to effectively counter Russian forces. Meanwhile, Russia has signaled a diminishing patience following continuous attacks on its infrastructure, including recent strikes on its oil refineries and elements of its nuclear early warning system.
Putin also commented on the political legitimacy in Ukraine, suggesting that the Ukrainian parliament should be the principal authority, especially since President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has not faced re-election due to the imposition of martial law after the invasion.
