Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning that supplying long-range weapons to Kyiv would be considered an act of aggression by NATO countries and would lead to war with Russia. This comes as both British and American officials prepare to return to their respective countries to inform their leaders about the “operational details” surrounding Ukraine’s use of missiles such as the Storm Shadow.
Speaking at the St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, Putin stated that supplying long-range weapons would significantly change the nature of the conflict and imply that NATO countries are at war with Russia. Russian Senator Aleksey Pushkov also commented on this issue, saying that conversations about striking Russian territory were being prepared and that it would be a matter of days before such an event takes place.
In related news, Russia is now pushing back against Ukraine forces in Kursk at full force. Ukrainian President Zelensky acknowledged this reality during a briefing, stating that the Russian “counteroffensive actions were according to our Ukrainian plan.” The Russian Defense Ministry (MoD) also confirmed that its offensive to regain sovereign Russian territory is in full swing, having already captured almost a dozen towns in the southern border region.
Since the Aug. 6 cross-border incursion, there have been reports of significant evacuation efforts from border regions. At first, it was estimated that 100,000 Russians fled the area, but now that figure is up to 150,000 who were evacuated.
Western officials continue to cheer on Ukraine’s operation, with British Defense Secretary John Healey stating that “the longer they hold Kursk, the weaker Putin becomes.” However, the tide of battle in Ukraine’s east tells a different story, as Russian sources claim that Ukrainian troops are currently surrendering in large numbers.
