Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin sends 'signal' to West after Putin's nuclear threat - as Zelenskyy gets glide bombs from Biden

 



Joe Biden has recently announced the provision of further long-range munitions to Ukraine; however, he remains firm in his decision not to permit the deployment of these missiles into Russian territory. Concurrently, Vladimir Putin is revising Russia's nuclear doctrine, signaling a new escalation in threats.

The recent hours have seen significant developments in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Here’s what you need to know:


Increased U.S. Military Support.

President Joe Biden has announced a new surge in military aid for Ukraine, which includes long-sought glide bombs, additional air defense systems, and increased training for Ukrainian pilots. This announcement was met with appreciation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who discussed the matter with Biden at the White House after addressing the United Nations in New York.


Mixed Reactions

While the new military package is considered "critical" by Zelenskyy, security and defense editor Deborah Haynes noted that it doesn't fully meet Kyiv’s expectations. Although it features more long-range missiles, Ukraine still lacks permission to use them against targets within Russian territory.


Putin’s Nuclear Threats

Vladimir Putin has escalated his rhetoric regarding nuclear weapons, proposing new rules that would permit their use if Russia is attacked, even with conventional arms. The Kremlin indicated this should serve as a "signal" to the West, warning of "unprecedented confrontation" should they support attacks against Russia. Analysts believe this threat aims to induce panic in Western nations and discourage them from allowing Ukraine to target Russian territory.


Concerns Over Ukraine's Strategy

Reports suggest President Biden is dissatisfied with Zelenskyy’s "victory plan," with U.S. officials expressing worries that it lacks sufficient detail on potential diplomatic avenues for resolution, as highlighted by The Wall Street Journal.

Blink en’s Response

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has criticized Putin's nuclear warnings as "irresponsible" and poorly timed. He emphasized the global community’s disapproval of such threats, particularly amidst discussions on disarmament and non-proliferation.


Impact of Sanctions

Following the sanctions imposed on Russia after it invaded Ukraine, the sale of British luxury vehicles to Russia has plummeted, while sales to former Soviet nations like Azerbaijan and Georgia have surged. There are concerns that these vehicles may ultimately end up in Russia, leading to an investigation into how this occurs.


Dialogue Between Russia and the Vatican

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s second-in-command, to discuss humanitarian actions related to the Ukraine crisis. Their discussions also touched on the geopolitical issues stemming from Western policies against Russia. Relations between the Vatican and Kyiv have faced tensions due to various comments from Pope Francis, yet he has consistently called for peace and condemned Russian aggression that has resulted in civilian casualties.

Stay tuned for further updates and analyses from Washington, Kyiv, and Moscow throughout the day.

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