In a chilling declaration, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed concerns for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s safety while issuing a direct threat of unleashing Oreshnik missiles on Kyiv. During a press conference in Kazakhstan, Putin praised Trump as an “intelligent politician” capable of resolving the Russia-Ukraine war but highlighted the growing risks to his life after several assassination attempts.
Putin’s Warnings About Trump’s Safety
Putin pointed to two significant incidents where Trump narrowly escaped harm:
- July 2024: Trump was injured at a Pennsylvania rally when a bullet grazed his ear, a moment captured on camera.
- September 2024: A man was apprehended at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, allegedly armed with a rifle.
Deeming these attacks “uncivilized,” Putin stated, “He is not safe now.” He also criticized the adversarial approach Trump faced during the elections, calling for heightened caution.
Oreshnik Missile Threats: A New Stage in the Conflict
Russia’s introduction of Oreshnik missiles, medium-range ballistic weapons with the capability to carry multiple warheads, marks a significant escalation. Putin revealed these missiles were deployed in recent strikes on Ukraine’s Dnipro region and are capable of devastating military, industrial, and governmental targets.
Putin emphasized the missiles’ power, likening repeated strikes to the impact of nuclear weapons, though he clarified that the current warheads are non-nuclear. He warned Kyiv of potential attacks on “decision-making centers” if Ukrainian forces continue targeting Russian infrastructure.
Putin on U.S.-Russia Relations Under Trump
While criticizing the Biden administration’s continued support for Ukraine, including long-range missile provisions, Putin speculated the moves might complicate Trump’s presidency or provide leverage for negotiations. Trump has pledged to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war within 24 hours of taking office, a bold promise whose details remain unclear.
Geopolitical Implications
The deployment of Oreshnik missiles raises concerns about the further destabilization of Eastern Europe. Western nations, including the U.S., UK, and France, have strengthened Ukraine’s defense capabilities, fueling Russia’s aggressive stance. Experts believe Putin’s statements signal a calculated move to test global responses and Trump’s potential influence.
As the international community watches closely, the focus remains on diplomatic measures to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.