Moscow: Russia’s President Vladimir Putin gave a strong warning to the West on Wednesday that his country would respond “quickly and severely” if Russian security interests were harmed. Putin gave this warning in his annual nation’s address. His remarks came amid a massive Russian military gathering near Ukraine where confrontations between Russia-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces have increased in recent times.
The US and its allies have urged Russia to withdraw its troops. Putin said, “I hope no one will dare to cross the red line with respect to Russia….” He said that those who would pose a threat to Russia’s main security interests would have to repent a lot.
Putin said that he does not want to go ahead and take action but if someone considers our good intentions as apathy or weakness then we will not back down from taking strict action. Putin pointed to steps to modernize his nuclear weapons and said that the military would continue to purchase state-of-the-art hypersonic missiles and other new weapons.
He said that the development of nuclear-powered ‘underwater’ drones and cruise missiles capable of carrying nuclear weapons is continuing successfully. Putin, without naming any country, condemned a foreign government that imposes “illegal and politically motivated economic sanctions” to impose its words on others.
He said that Russia has been showing restraint and often refrained from responding to “provoking” actions of others. Putin said during his address, “Russia has its own interests, which we will defend in accordance with international law… if anyone refuses to understand this clear point, or is not in favor of negotiation and adopts a selfish and egoistic stance.” Yes, Russia will always find a way to defend its position. “
