Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zakharova stated on the 17th that if certain Western countries allow Ukraine to use their long-range weapons to attack targets deep inside Russia, Russia has the right to use weapons to strike the military facilities of those countries. If the conflict further escalates, Russia will deliver a "resolute response."
At a regular press conference, she said that without the direct involvement of military personnel from the countries producing these long-range weapon systems (receiving NATO satellite reconnaissance data, programming missile flight paths, etc.), it would be impossible for Ukrainian troops to operate these systems independently. If such long-range weapons are used, the direct participation of foreign military personnel in planning and executing combat operations against Russia would mean that those countries must bear all resulting consequences.
She pointed out that in November 2024, Russian President Putin clearly articulated Russia's position regarding the decision of Western countries to allow Ukraine to use their long-range weapons systems to strike deep into Russian territory, "and this position has not changed to this day."
Russia Willing to Participate in Third Round of Direct Russia-Ukraine Talks
In response to U.S. calls for Russia and Ukraine to reach an agreement within 50 days, Zakharova stated that Russia's position on the situation in Ukraine is very clear. Western countries have already imposed a variety of unprecedented sanctions and restrictions against Russia, and Russia is already "accustomed to" new threats of sanctions. Russia knows how to deal with sanctions, but "in any case, Russia does not accept any factors of threat."
She pointed out that the "stalemate" in Russia-Ukraine negotiations is because Ukraine is either avoiding talks or has yet to determine when it will be ready to negotiate. The Russian delegation is willing to go to Istanbul to participate in a third round of direct Russia-Ukraine talks, and hopes that Ukraine can act in accordance with the consensus already reached and continue the negotiation process.
She stated that there have so far been no signs or responses from Ukraine indicating willingness to hold a third round of talks.