Putin Threatens to Deploy Low and Intermediate-Range Missiles if US Places Missiles in Germany

Vladimir Putin has announced that in response to the deployment of high-precision US missiles in Germany, Russia will consider itself released from its moratorium on the deployment of short- and medium-range missiles. Putin made this statement during the Russian Navy Day in St. Petersburg on July 28.

Putin emphasized that the installation of US missile systems in Germany will prompt Russia to enhance its coastal forces' capabilities. He clarified that Russia is in the final stages of developing several such systems and will take reciprocal measures in response to US actions and those of its allies in Europe and other regions.

“Today, the development of a number of such systems is at the final stage. We will take mirror measures regarding their deployment, taking into account the actions of the United States and its satellites in Europe and other regions of the world,” according to Putin.

“Important Russian state and military administration facilities will be within range of American missiles stationed in Germany,” Putin stated, noting that these missiles could potentially be equipped with nuclear warheads, reducing launch time to about 10 minutes. He compared the situation to the Cold War.

Previously, it was reported that the US plans to deploy long-range missiles in Europe to deter Russia and protect NATO allies. Starting in 2026, Tomahawk missiles, which have a range of up to 2,500 kilometers, will be stationed in Germany.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remarked that the deployment of these weapons in Germany is intended to prevent war. When asked what Moscow should do to stop the deployment of American long-range missiles, he responded, “Stop the war in Ukraine.”

Johann Wadephul, deputy head of the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) faction in the Bundestag, also approved the deployment of US long-range missiles in Germany. He highlighted the need to adequately restrain Russia, which “attacks other countries, particularly those unable to defend themselves.”