President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning to the United States and its allies, stating that Russia would consider itself at war if restrictions on Ukraine’s use of long-range Western weapons are lifted. This warning comes ahead of talks between British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and President Joe Biden where the issue is expected to be discussed. Putin has emphasized that the decision to allow Ukraine to strike deep inside Russia with Western missiles would mean NATO countries are directly involved in a military conflict with Russia. The Kremlin has been portraying the war in Ukraine as a clash with the West since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Despite warnings about crossing red lines, the West has continued to support Ukraine, which led to Putin’s latest warnings about potential consequences. Ukraine has been seeking permission to use Western-supplied long-range weapons to strike deeper inside Russia, but there have been concerns about escalating the conflict. However, recent developments suggest a shift in this stance, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British officials showing support for Ukraine’s request. The situation remains tense, with Russia revoking the accreditation of British diplomats in Moscow amid escalating tensions. The conflict in Ukraine continues to be a flashpoint in relations between Russia and the West.
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