Moscow – The prospect of Ukraine receiving American Tomahawk missiles has prompted a severe warning from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who declared it would usher in a “qualitatively new stage of escalation.” This direct threat to Washington signals a potentially dangerous new phase in the ongoing war.
Putin articulated that the use of such advanced weaponry would be impossible without direct US military participation, a scenario he suggests would force a response that would demolish Moscow’s relationship with Washington. This rhetoric establishes a clear red line for the United States, linking military aid directly to the risk of a broader conflict.
This warning was delivered as Putin celebrated what he described as major battlefield victories. He told his top military commanders that Russian forces had captured a vast area of nearly 5,000 square kilometers in Ukraine during 2025, claiming his military now holds the “complete strategic initiative.”
While Russia focused on conventional warfare gains, Ukraine highlighted unconventional threats. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of using its civilian oil tankers as platforms for espionage and sabotage. This claim suggests a shadow war is being waged at sea, far from the traditional front lines.
Zelenskyy assured that efforts were being made to neutralize this threat. He communicated via Telegram that Ukraine is collaborating with its allies on the matter, stating confidently that these alleged Russian activities can be stopped.