Putin Warns of Direct West-Russia Clash Over Ukraine

President Vladimir Putin has warned that the West's decision to allow Ukraine to strike Russian territory using Western-made long-range missiles would directly involve NATO countries in the conflict. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy has been pushing for these missile capabilities to limit Moscow's attacks. This could alter the nature and scope of the war, escalating tensions significantly.

President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning that if the West permits Ukraine to use Western-made long-range missiles to strike Russian territory, it would mean direct involvement in the conflict by NATO countries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has actively sought permission from Kyiv's allies for these missile capabilities, aiming to limit Russia's offensive operations. Putin emphasized that such a move would inevitably require NATO military personnel to handle missile targeting and programming, dragging them directly into the war.

Putin added that Russia would need to adopt 'appropriate decisions' in response to new threats, hinting at possible measures, including arming the West's adversaries with Russian weapons. He also mentioned that Russia is revising its nuclear doctrine, possibly to state its readiness to use nuclear arms against countries supporting NATO efforts in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)