Russia issued a stern warning to Ukraine on Wednesday, stating that any long-range attacks deep inside Russian territory would be met with an immediate and painful response. For months, Ukraine has sought U.S. approval to strike further into Russia using long-range weapons, but Western allies have restricted such use to avoid escalating the conflict. Currently, Ukraine can use small arms, artillery, and armored vehicles inside Russia and missiles in border areas but not in deeper territories.
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that any aggressive steps by Ukraine would trigger a swift and severe response. “If such aggressive steps are taken by the Kyiv regime, Russia’s response will be immediate and extremely painful,” Zakharova warned.
The statement came after a recent missile strike in Poltava, Ukraine, killed over 50 people and injured more than 200. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed his plea for long-range weapons, stressing the urgent need for air defense systems and missiles to protect against Russian attacks.
Russia Blames the West for Escalation
Zakharova accused Western nations of being the “main instigators” of the conflict, citing their direct involvement in supporting Ukraine. She criticized the West for losing touch with reality and ignoring the risks of further escalation, claiming that their actions were driven by self-interest rather than concern for Ukrainian citizens.
