Putin warns Moscow will retaliate if the West aids Ukraine in launching deep strikes within Russian territory.
MOSCOW, Oct. 27 — Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning, stressing that Russia is actively preparing responses if the United States and NATO allies authorize Ukraine to use advanced, long-range missiles to strike Russian territory. Entering its third year, the Ukraine conflict is pushing Russia and the West into an era of heightened confrontation, with Russian officials claiming that the conflict may be nearing its most dangerous phase yet.
For several weeks, Moscow has been cautioning the West, emphasizing that any Western-sanctioned Ukrainian strikes deep within Russian borders would be seen as a significant escalation. In remarks made on September 12, Putin pointed out that any support for such actions would effectively involve NATO directly, requiring U.S. and European military infrastructure and personnel to support targeting operations within Russian territory.
During a recent interview with state media, Putin clarified that while the exact nature of Russia’s response remains to be determined, the Russian defense ministry is considering various response strategies. “The Russian defense ministry is reviewing potential responses to any long-range attacks on Russian soil. They are prepared to offer a variety of options,” he stated.
Ukraine’s Push for Long-Range Missile Capabilities
As Russia intensifies its military operations in eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made repeated calls for Western allies to allow Kyiv the use of advanced missiles capable of reaching deep within Russian territory. Although U.S. officials have not disclosed any intentions regarding such permissions, some remain skeptical about the impact this might have on the overall conflict. Ukraine has already launched multiple strikes within Russia using long-range drones, showcasing its existing ability to hit strategic locations across the border.
Meanwhile, in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, Russian forces recently gained control of the coal-mining town of Selydove, according to reports from several pro-Russian military sources. This marks a continued push by Moscow into critical regions of eastern Ukraine as the conflict shows little sign of easing.
The Broader Russia-West Conflict
Putin has consistently framed the Ukraine conflict as a larger ideological struggle between Russia and a declining Western order, which he claims disregarded Russian interests following the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. Western allies, however, view the situation differently. Ukraine and its supporters argue that Russia’s actions reflect a resurgence of imperial ambitions, warning that a victory for Russia could embolden authoritarian regimes worldwide.
Nuclear Doctrine Shift Amid Western Tensions
As the U.S. presidential election nears, Putin recently adjusted Russia’s nuclear doctrine—a move the Kremlin explained as a direct response to Western discussions regarding possible missile strikes on Russian territory. Putin, when asked if the West had noted Russia’s warnings, replied, “I hope they have heard. Otherwise, we will be forced to make our own decisions.”
Putin also remarked that targeting Russian territory would likely involve NATO personnel, as Western satellite data would be crucial for precision strikes. He noted, “The real question is whether they will choose to strike deep into Russian territory.”
Although U.S. officials have emphasized that they do not wish to escalate the situation, questions remain over how a potential new U.S. administration may approach the conflict. Former President Donald Trump has expressed intentions to bring an end to the Ukraine conflict, while Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris has pledged continued support for Kyiv.
What Lies Ahead?
With each side poised to respond to any major developments, the situation in Ukraine remains delicate. As Moscow readies its defenses and Western leaders deliberate on their next moves, the trajectory of this complex and dangerous confrontation remains uncertain, with international stability hanging in the balance.