Putin Warns of Renewed Missile Crisis Amid U.S. Plans

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the United States that deploying long-range missiles in Germany by 2026 could trigger a Cold War-style missile crisis. The U.S. is planning these deployments as part of its commitment to NATO, but Putin cautioned that Russia would take mirror measures, potentially resuming production of nuclear-capable missiles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday issued a stern warning to the United States regarding its plans to deploy long-range missiles in Germany by 2026. According to Putin, such actions could provoke a Cold War-style missile crisis, leading Russia to station similar missiles within striking distance of the West.

The deployment of these missiles is part of the United States' commitment to NATO and European defense, as confirmed by Washington and Berlin earlier this month. The U.S. plans include the stationing of SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and developmental hypersonic weapons, which have a longer range than the current capabilities in Europe.

Speaking to an international audience of sailors during Russian navy day in St. Petersburg, Putin emphasized that these missiles could hit Russian targets within ten minutes, exacerbating tensions. He added that the U.S. has also transferred Typhon missile systems to Denmark and the Philippines, likening the situation to the deployment of Pershing II launchers in Europe in 1979.