SOCHI, Russia — Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a strong warning to the United States on October 2, stating that any decision to supply long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine would lead to a "whole new level of escalation" in the already strained relationship between Moscow and Washington.
Speaking at the plenary session of the Valdai International Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin addressed reports that the US was considering Ukraine's request for Tomahawk missiles, which have a range capable of reaching Moscow. "Will this undermine our relationship, where a light has appeared at the end of the tunnel? Of course, it will. How could it not?" Putin remarked.
Escalation and Battlefield Dynamics
The Russian leader emphasized that the use of Tomahawk missiles by Ukraine would be impossible without the "direct participation of American military personnel," a move that he asserted would trigger a "qualitatively new stage of escalation." However, he downplayed the strategic impact of the weapons, calling the Tomahawk "not entirely modern but still a powerful weapon," before insisting it would not change the situation on the battlefield, where Russian forces claim to be making advances. He cited the Russian military's success in shooting down US-supplied ATACMS missiles as an example of their adaptability. US officials, meanwhile, have reportedly suggested the delivery of Tomahawks may be unfeasible due to inventory commitments, proposing alternative long-range options or allowing European allies to purchase and supply other weapons.
Diplomatic Stances and Nuclear Posture
On the diplomatic front, Putin reiterated his offer to the US to unilaterally extend the New START treaty for one year, while noting that any new arms control talks must consider Russia's advanced Oreshnik missile system, as well as the nuclear potential of NATO members Britain and France. He also issued a stark warning regarding nuclear testing, stating that if any nation prepares for a nuclear test, "we will do the same."
The Russian President praised US President Donald Trump, describing him as someone who "likes to shock people but fundamentally knows how to listen." He highlighted their recent August summit in Alaska as a productive discussion focused solely on resolving the Ukraine crisis, a dialogue which he stated Moscow is "ready to continue."
Critique of the West and International Support
Putin sharply criticized Europe, placing the responsibility for the ongoing conflict on the continent. In contrast, he expressed gratitude to BRICS nations—China, India, Brazil, and South Africa—as well as Belarus and North Korea for their sincere efforts in seeking a resolution to the Ukraine crisis. North Korea's support has included sending military personnel to Russia's Kursk region.
He warned Europe to be cautious of its "escalating militarization," promising that Russian "retaliatory measures will not be long in coming." Furthermore, he dismissed the notion of Russia attacking NATO as "nonsense" aimed at distracting from Western domestic issues. Putin also condemned the seizure of a tanker suspected of belonging to the Russian "shadow fleet" off the French coast as "piracy" and maintained that Europe's "hysteria" over drone incursions, which he jokingly vowed "not to do anymore," is simply a distraction from internal problems.
Finally, in a direct appeal to the American people, Putin paid tribute to the son of a former CIA Deputy Director, Michael Gloss, who died fighting for Russia in Ukraine, saying Americans should be proud of him for fighting "with dignity on the frontline."
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