Russia Warns of Cold War-Style Confrontation After US-Missile Deployment
Russia issued a warning on Saturday after the United States announced plans to deploy long-range missiles from Germany, stating that this move could result in European capitals becoming target zones.
Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the dangers of this decision, stating, "Europe is the target of our missiles, our country is the target of American missiles in Europe. We have already experienced this. We have the ability to stop these missiles, but the potential victims are the capitals of these European countries."
The announcement followed a NATO summit, during which the United States and Germany revealed their plan to deploy American missiles, including SM-6 missiles, Tomahawk missiles, and hypersonic weapons, in Berlin by 2026. This move will significantly increase the range of projectiles currently deployed in Europe.
The Russian government condemned the decision, referring to it as a return to the Cold War era. Russian defence ministers, Andrei Belousov, and the Pentagon chief, Lloyd Austin, subsequently spoke by telephone to discuss reducing the risk of a possible escalation, according to Moscow.
The Pentagon highlighted the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has been supported by Western powers since Moscow launched its military operation in February 2022.
Source: AFP
