In a strongly worded statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to restart production of intermediate-range nuclear weapons if the United States confirms its intention to deploy missiles in Germany or other European countries. Speaking at a naval parade in Saint Petersburg, Putin claimed that the development of such systems is nearing completion and that Russia will take “mirror measures” in response to any US action.
The Russian leader’s warning comes after the US and Germany announced plans to deploy long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles to Germany in 2026. Putin warned that this would put important Russian administrative and military sites within range of potential nuclear strikes, with some areas vulnerable to attack within just 10 minutes.
The move is seen as a throwback to the Cold War era, when the US deployed Pershing ballistic missiles in West Germany. Putin compared the current situation to the tensions of that era, stating that the proposed US deployment would be a “reminder of the events of the Cold War.”
The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, signed in 1987, banned the development and deployment of intermediate-range nuclear weapons. However, both the US and Russia withdrew from the treaty in 2019, citing violations by each other. Since then, Russia has been accused of developing new intermediate-range missiles, while the US has begun deploying mid-range missile systems in Denmark and the Philippines.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov echoed Putin’s concerns, warning that the proposed US deployment would make European capitals a target for Russian missiles and bring about a return to the Cold War era.
The development has raised concerns about a potential nuclear arms race, with both sides accusing each other of escalating tensions. As tensions continue to rise, it remains unclear what steps will be taken next in this increasingly confrontational situation.
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