Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the United States (US) that supplying Tomahawk long-range missiles to Ukraine would: “destroy” relations between Moscow and Washington. Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin said using such weapons would require: “direct participation of American military personnel,” marking what he called: “a new, qualitative stage of escalation.”

The warning came after reports that US officials were considering Ukraine’s request for Tomahawk cruise missiles, which can strike targets up to 2 500 kilometres away. Putin said Russia would respond by strengthening its air defences and accused the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) of undermining regional stability through its expansion.

U.S. officials have not confirmed any decision on the missile transfer.