Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at potential strikes on decision-making centers in Kyiv with Moscow’s new intermediate-range ballistic missile. He claimed that Russian production of advanced missile systems exceeds that of NATO by 10 times and vowed to respond to the use of Western missiles by Ukraine. These statements come as Russia conducted a “massive” aerial attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving at least one million people without power.
In response to these threats, Ukraine has called on the international community to react to Putin’s statements, describing them as blackmail aimed at discouraging Kyiv’s partners and testing the incoming Trump administration. Putin also mentioned that Russia would use all weapons at its disposal against Ukraine if Kyiv were to acquire nuclear arms. He emphasized that Russia would not allow Ukraine to become a nuclear power and would respond with any means necessary.
Amidst these tensions, a Russian court sentenced a defense lawyer who represented critics of Moscow’s actions in Ukraine to seven years in prison for spreading false information about the Russian army and inciting hatred. This move has been criticized by the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Russia, who called for the lawyer’s immediate release and exoneration.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is at a critical juncture, with Russian ground forces advancing in eastern Donetsk. The situation continues to escalate, with strikes on Naftogaz facilities reported and concerns about France’s response to potential arrest warrants against Putin by the International Criminal Court. As the situation unfolds, there is growing concern about the impact of these developments on the region and beyond.
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