Russia has issued a new alarming “nuclear” alert, describing the current situation in the Ukraine conflict as a critical juncture. In response, Donald Trump has indicated to Vladimir Putin that unless Moscow intensifies efforts for peace, he may consider providing long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This move has sparked concerns within the Kremlin, suggesting that if Ukraine acquires such missiles, it could pose a significant threat to Russia, potentially triggering a strong reaction from the West.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that tensions are rapidly increasing from all sides. He raised worries about the potential transfer of older versions of Tomahawk missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, highlighting the risks associated with such actions. Peskov urged military experts abroad to comprehend the implications of these developments.
The escalating tensions have also been underscored by Russian state television, with prominent host Vladimir Solovyov likening the potential transfer of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine to the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. He expressed concerns that such a move could lead to a similar crisis with profound global repercussions.
In response, Putin has warned that supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine would severely strain his relationship with Trump, potentially jeopardizing the positive momentum in their interactions. Trump, en route to Israel on Air Force One, cautioned Russia about the possibility of sending Tomahawks if the conflict remains unresolved, emphasizing the offensive capabilities of these weapons.
During a call with Trump, Ukrainian President Zelensky described their discussion as fruitful, focusing on enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including air defense and long-range systems. Zelensky hinted at ongoing efforts regarding the acquisition of Tomahawk missiles, indicating a willingness to explore this option.
Overall, the situation remains tense as key international players navigate the complexities of the Ukraine conflict and the potential implications of military escalations.