Putin Warns of Response to Ukraine's Long-Range Weapons

President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia will implement a 'range of responses' if the US and NATO allow Ukraine to use Western long-range weapons against Russia, as tensions continue to escalate. His comments follow a series of Ukrainian drone attacks, which Russia claims to have intercepted, and a multi-wave drone attack on Kyiv that reportedly resulted in no major damage or casualties. Additionally, Putin suggested that advanced missile systems require specialized personnel that are not available in Ukraine, indicating that only NATO experts could operate them effectively. The Russian military's recent losses have been significant, with estimates suggesting up to 40,000 casualties this month alone. Amid these developments, Putin has also emphasized Russia's nuclear capabilities, asserting that the country will maintain its deterrent posture against perceived threats from NATO. This includes ongoing military drills with Belarus involving battlefield nuclear weapons and plans to produce intermediate-range missiles banned under previous treaties.