Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to provide long-range weapons to other countries that could be used to strike Western targets in retaliation for NATO allies allowing Ukraine to use their arms to attack Russian soil. Putin also reiterated Moscow’s willingness to employ nuclear weapons if its sovereignty is threatened. His remarks come as Western nations authorize Ukraine to hit targets within Russia with long-range weapons, escalating tensions and concerns over international security. Putin claimed that Western-supplied weapons are controlled and targeted by military personnel from those countries, prompting Moscow to consider ‘asymmetrical’ actions. The US military, however, denies any direct involvement in missile control or target selection. Putin also dismissed any potential shifts in Russia-US relations regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US presidential election.
Results for: Ukraine Crisis
The White House has downplayed the significance of a hug between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that it did not indicate any major advancements in relations between the two countries. Despite expressing concerns about potential Chinese assistance to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the White House said it had not observed any substantial progress during Xi’s visit to Beijing. The US remains vigilant in monitoring the evolving relationship between Russia and China.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a beacon of support and diplomacy during the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. His unwavering commitment to dialogue and diplomacy has played a vital role in ensuring the safe passage of Indians stranded in the war-torn regions. Through his personal conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, PM Modi has facilitated the establishment of humanitarian corridors and the evacuation of Indian citizens. The Indian government’s ‘ ‘ initiative has provided a lifeline to Indians stranded in Ukraine’s neighboring countries, with students expressing their gratitude for the PM’s efforts in bringing them home safely.
Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski is set to deliver a pivotal speech to parliament, outlining the government’s foreign policy vision amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Sikorski will emphasize Poland’s commitment to leadership in Europe and its focus on bolstering ties with both Washington and Brussels. He will reiterate the importance of safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and advocate for Russia’s integration into the Western community of nations.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has emphasized the need for Europe to continue increasing aid to Ukraine, despite the approval of a substantial U.S. aid package. However, Scholz has remained adamant in his refusal to provide Ukraine with Taurus long-range cruise missiles. During a meeting with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Scholz stressed the importance of European countries further expanding their support for Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression. Despite providing a third Patriot missile battery, Scholz urged other European nations with the system to consider providing one. However, he maintained his decision not to send Taurus missiles, citing concerns that their use requires German military involvement.
The Senate is set to vote on Tuesday on a $95 billion war aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, following approval by the House of Representatives. The package includes $61 billion for Ukraine, which is facing ongoing Russian aggression, as well as $26 billion for Israel and $8 billion for Taiwan. The aid package has faced some opposition from conservatives, but is expected to pass with broad congressional support.