Russia chides US over allowing Ukraine to hit its soil with long-range weapons
Associated PressNov 19
Putin Confirms Use of Hypersonic Missile, Warns US and UK
Above: Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin, pictured on Nov. 18, 2024. Image copyright: Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin confirmed his country's use of a hypersonic, intermediate-range ballistic missile on Ukraine on Thursday, stating that the successful "test" of this missile came in response to the US and UK permitting Ukraine to strike Russia with their weapons.
Earlier in the day, Ukrainian officials claimed that Russia deployed a non-nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile in the attack on the city of Dnipro, but this was disputed by a Western intelligence official who spoke to ABC News.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The US takes seriously the reckless rhetoric coming out of Russia. However, the US remains focused on supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes through Putin's war of choice and war of aggression. If he is concerned about escalation, he can pull his troops from Ukraine at any moment and stop invading his neighbor.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
This is the second major escalation by Russia. First, North Korean troops were deployed in the conflict, and now the Kremlin has deployed nuclear-capable weapons on the battlefield. The West must respond to these provocations to show Putin that his actions are unacceptable.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has repeatedly warned the US and UK that firing its weapons into Russian territory, which cannot be done without the involvement of its specialists, would mark their direct participation in the conflict. Russia prefers to settle this conflict peacefully, but if provocations continue, it has no choice but to respond.