Russia will develop a military response to the United States’ plan to deploy long-range missiles in Germany, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated on Thursday, according to official Moscow media, reports Reuters.
The US plans to station Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany to bolster NATO’s military deterrence capabilities in Europe, as detailed in a joint statement from the governments of the two countries on Wednesday, cited by dpa and Agerpres.
“Without nerves, without emotions, we will develop, first and foremost, a military response to this new threat,” Ryabkov said on Thursday in response to questions at the BRICS Parliamentary Forum in St. Petersburg.
According to Ryabkov, the Pentagon’s plans to deploy long-range missiles in Germany aim to undermine Russia’s security.
“These actions are primarily directed at damaging our country’s security,” the deputy minister said.
The joint US-German statement, released on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington, mentions that “episodic deployment” of long-range missiles will begin in 2026. In addition to Tomahawks, SM-6 missiles and hypersonic weapons, which are still under development and have a greater range than current missiles in Europe, will also be deployed.
“The use of these advanced capabilities will demonstrate the United States’ commitment to NATO and their contribution to European integrated deterrence,” the statement added.
This move by the United States is part of a broader strategy to enhance military presence in Europe amidst growing tensions with Russia. Experts believe such actions could lead to further escalation of military efforts on both sides, posing a risk to regional stability.
Ryabkov emphasized that Russia will develop adequate measures in response to protect its national security and interests. This will include both military and diplomatic actions aimed at mitigating the threats posed by the new missile deployments in Europe.
