Putin warns Russia could provide long-range weapons to attack West - and stays firm on nuclear option
Vladimir Putin has warned he could provide long-range weapons to nations to strike Western targets in response to NATO allies allowing Ukraine to use their arms to attack Russian territory.
The Russian president also reaffirmed Moscow's readiness to use nuclear weapons if it sees a threat to its sovereignty.
During an audience with international journalists, he said the recent actions by the West will further undermine international security and could lead to "very serious problems".
"That would mark their direct involvement in the war against the Russian Federation, and we reserve the right to act the same way."
It comes after the US, UK and Germany authorised Ukraine to hit some targets on Russian soil with the long-range weapons they are supplying to Kyiv.
Mr Putin also claimed using some Western-supplied weapons meant military personnel of those countries were controlling the missiles and selecting targets.
He used this as justification for Moscow being able to take "asymmetrical" steps elsewhere in the world.
What about nuclear weapons?
Asked whether Russia could resort to using nuclear arms, Mr Putin said the conditions for using that arsenal are clearly spelled out in Moscow's security doctrine.
"For some reason, they believe in the West that Russia will never use it," he said.
"Look at what is written there," he said of Russia's nuclear doctrine.
"If somebody's actions threaten our sovereignty and territorial integrity, we consider it possible to use all means at our disposal."