Putin warns of providing long-range weapons to strike Western targets

Russia's President Putin said that Moscow is ready to use nuclear weapons if it feels threatened. This comes after Germany and the US allowed Ukraine to target some areas in Russia with long-range weapons. Putin warned that if Kyiv uses these weapons, it could harm relations between Berlin and Moscow. He also mentioned that such actions could lead to serious problems and weaken global security. Putin suggested that Russia might provide similar weapons to other countries to target Western areas. Putin spoke to international journalists for the first time since Russian troops entered Ukraine. He mentioned that regardless of who wins the US presidential election, Russia's relationship with the US will likely stay the same. Putin also commented on the recent use of US weapons by Ukraine to strike inside Russia, authorized by President Biden. This was to defend Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. Putin criticized the West for supplying long-range weapons to Ukraine, warning that Russia could do the same to target Western locations. He questioned why Russia wouldn't have the right to supply such weapons if others are doing it. Putin emphasized that Russia's battlefield nuclear weapons are more powerful than those used by the US in World War II. During a press conference in St. Petersburg, Putin expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He mentioned that Russia has prisoners from Ukraine and vice versa. Putin also discussed the case of a detained Wall Street Journal reporter, stating that the US is working to secure his release. Putin highlighted that Russia is willing to work with any US president elected by the American people. In summary, Putin's statements reflect Russia's stance on the conflict in Ukraine, its relationship with the West, and its readiness to respond to perceived threats.