In a fiery speech to sailors during Russia’s navy day celebrations in St Petersburg, Vladimir Putin issued a stern warning to the US: if Washington deploys long-range missiles in Germany by 2026, Russia will retaliate by stationing similar missiles within striking distance of the west.
The US announced earlier this month its plans to begin deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in an effort to show its commitment to NATO and European defense. These deployments would include SM-6 and Tomahawk cruise missiles, as well as developmental hypersonic weapons with longer ranges than current capabilities in Europe.
Putin criticized the US for stoking tensions by transferring Typhon missile systems to Denmark and the Philippines, likening the situation to the Cold War era when NATO deployed Pershing II launchers in western Europe in 1979. This move, according to Putin, was seen as a threat to the Soviet Union’s leadership.
The Russian president warned that Moscow could resume production of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles if the US moves forward with its plans in Europe and Asia. The risk of triggering a cold war-style missile crisis is real, as Putin emphasized the proximity of targets on Russian territory to potential missiles equipped with nuclear warheads.
The escalating tensions between Russia and the US serve as a reminder of the fragile balance of power in the world today. As Putin delivers his message loud and clear, the world waits to see how the US will respond to this latest threat. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
