Putin Vows Stronger Military Response, Warns NATO Against Direct Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that his country will increase its retaliatory attacks in Ukraine. He made clear that Moscow plans to strengthen its overall response to attacks from Ukrainian forces.

The announcement came as Putin spoke at the Kremlin on Friday. The speech was part of events for Russia Day that honored participants in what Russia calls its special military operation.

Putin provided details on the scale of Russian military involvement. He said that more than seven hundred thousand Russian troops are now deployed in the combat zone. He noted that Russian forces are advancing on the ground, though he acknowledged that the advances are not occurring as rapidly as preferred.

The president offered praise for the military units taking part in the operation. He also spoke about efforts to expand support programs for service members and their families.

In his remarks, Putin highlighted several technological developments. Russia is creating new FPV drones and unmanned systems that rely on artificial intelligence. Work is also being done to expand satellite communications and to strengthen air defense capabilities.

Putin claimed that Russia has successfully withstood pressure applied by the collective West. He issued a warning to NATO, saying that any direct military confrontation with Russia would lead to serious consequences.