Putin escalates tensions: Claims of Western missile attacks
Vladimir Putin addressed the Russian people without prior announcement. The president claimed that "ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles hit targets in Russia, striking facilities in the Kursk and Bryansk regions." and threatened the West. He also mentioned that, for the first time, Russia launched a medium-range ballistic missile, "Oreshnik," at Ukraine.
Many reports provided by Russian state media or Kremlin officials are likely untrue. These may form part of an information war by the Russian Federation.
The unexpected and unannounced address by Putin was related to strikes deep into Russian territory. He stated that on 19th November, ATACMS missiles and on 20th November, Storm Shadow systems struck targets in the Kursk and Bryansk regions. Despite these claims, it was reported by Russian channels that losses did occur, although the targets were allegedly not hit.
Putin threatens the West
According to Putin, "the conflict in Ukraine has acquired elements of a global character." In response to these strikes, Russia commenced combined attacks on Ukrainian military-industrial facilities.
Putin's cynical statement
The leader admitted that on Thursday morning, the Ukrainian city of Dnipro was attacked with the new "Oreshnik" system. This missile is said to be a medium-range ballistic missile. Putin claimed that modern Western air defence systems cannot intercept missiles travelling at speeds of approximately 9,700 to 11,000 kilometres per hour.
He announced further attacks on facilities that will be destroyed based on perceived threats to the country using the latest Russian missile systems. Cynically, he stated that Russia will notify the civilian population in advance in the event of further use of these missiles so that they can evacuate.
Moscow ready "for all scenarios"
Vladimir Putin did not rule out using new missiles against countries that allowed Ukraine to attack Russian territory with their missiles. He declared that Moscow is prepared for all scenarios in this conflict.
He also warned that "we are also ready for any development. If anyone still doubts this, it is in vain. There will always be a response."
Just before Putin's speech, CNN, citing an American official, reported that the Russian Federation has only "a handful of these experimental missiles," one of which was launched at Dnipro.
