Russian leader Vladimir Putin cautioned the United States this Sunday that his country would counteract if the US proceeds with their plan to station long-range missiles in Germany starting 2026. Notably, Russia would respond by installing comparable missiles within striking reach of the West.
Earlier this month, the United States and Germany announced that the US would initiate the deployment of long-range fire weaponry in Germany by 2026. This move, as per the nations, is to affirm their dedication to NATO and the defence of Europe.
According to reports emerging from Washington and Berlin, the United States’ “sporadic deployments” mark the beginning of arranging for more extended-term placement of similar capabilities. The US arsenal will comprise of SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and emergent hypersonic weapons with a range extending beyond the current capabilities in Europe.
Vladimir Putin raised concerns over potential Cold War-like missile crisis during his speech to sailors from Russia, China, Algeria, and India, on Russian Navy Day in the historical capital of St Petersburg. Putin expressed worry that missiles carrying nuclear warheads could strike Russia within a mere 10-minute flight time.
Reacting to America’s actions in Europe and other world regions, he emphasised Russia’s readiness to respond in kind. Putin also disclosed that the United States had moved Typhon missile systems to Denmark and the Philippines.
Drawing similarities to the NATO choice of installing Pershing II launchers in Western Europe in 1979, Putin stated that the US’ current intentions remind him of the tense Cold War era events. Reiterating a previous warning, Putin mentioned that Russia could restart production of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-ready missiles and then determine their deployment in reaction to the United States bringing similar missiles to Europe and Asia. – Reuters
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