If Kiev agrees to the deployment of missiles, Russia would find itself in a state of conflict with NATO.
According to Russian President Vladimir Putin, if the West gives Ukraine the go-ahead to use long-range weapons against Russia, it would essentially declare NATO at war with Russia. He explained this to a state TV reporter, stating, "This would significantly transform the nature of the conflict. It would imply that NATO nations, including the US and European countries, are at war with Russia."
Putin stressed that the situation depends on whether NATO countries are directly involved in the military conflict in Ukraine. If Ukraine receives approval, Russia will respond accordingly, taking into account the new threats and changed nature of the conflict, Putin further explained.
Ukraine is urging its allies to loosen restrictions on providing Western-supplied weapons, even for targeting Russia. However, the US has been hesitant, fearing an escalation that could potentially lead to direct conflict with Russia.
During a visit to Kyiv on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentioned that Washington would deliberate on Ukraine's military requests "urgently." This issue is also expected to be discussed during a meeting between US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Washington on Friday.
If Ukraine receives approval to use missiles against Russia, it could escalate the conflict significantly, potentially putting NATO nations at risk of direct involvement in the war, as Putin warned. In response to such a move, Russia would reassess its strategic position and take necessary measures to counter the new threats.
