Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning to the United States against deploying long-range missiles in Germany, threatening to restart production of intermediate-range nuclear weapons. He claims that Ukraine, Crimea, and parts of eastern Ukraine are part of Russia's sphere of influence.
The US plans to deploy missiles in Germany, which could potentially lead to a Cold War-style crisis similar to the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Putin compares the US plans to NATO's deployment of Pershing II missiles in West Germany in 1979, expressing concerns about a potential US-led decapitation of Soviet leadership.
The INF Treaty, which banned intermediate-range missiles, was withdrawn by both the US and Russia in 2019. In response to the US deployment, Putin warns that Russia could resume production of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles.
Former German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel criticizes the lack of public debate surrounding the planned deployment of US missiles in Germany, expressing concerns about the potential for military escalation. He emphasizes the need for understanding and approval from the population, as Germany could become a battleground if these weapons are used.
