Headline: Putin: Russia Ready to Use Intermediate-Range Weapons if Needed
Subheading: Kremlin unveils potential escalation as Slovakia offers to host Ukraine war talks.
Article:
In a statement echoing potential escalation, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed that Russia is prepared to employ more powerful intermediate-range weapons if necessary. This declaration comes amid heightened tensions following Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and as Slovakia offers itself as a potential venue for peace talks.
Putin’s comments, reported by Russian state media, stated, "If it is necessary to use more powerful weapons of intermediate range, then this will be done." This statement suggests a potential widening of the conflict, given the increased reach and destructive capability of such weapons.
In the same interview, Putin expressed openness to Slovakia’s offer to host negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, stating that Russia is not averse to such a platform. The Russian leader also vaguely hinted at a possible conclusion of the war in 2025, responding to a question on the matter with an ambiguous, "Perhaps you would like that."
This isn’t the first time Putin has hinted at the use of more advanced weaponry. He previously suggested Russia could deploy its ‘Oepravit’ hypersonic missile, although he claimed Moscow was not rushing to do so.
Putin’s statement is part of a broader trend of escalatory remarks from Russian officials, raising global concerns about the potential extension of the conflict.
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