21:53 23-09-2025

Putin Ends INF Limits, Signals Readiness to Confront West

Putin’s decision to abandon INF missile limits is viewed as a response to Western deployments, signaling Moscow’s readiness for counteraction amid rising tensions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to abandon restrictions on intermediate- and short-range missiles (INF) should be viewed not as a political gesture but as a clear signal to the West, according to an analysis published by Croatian outlet Advance.

The article argued that Putin’s message was straightforward: Moscow would not accept a framework in which others dictate the rules while Russia is expected to show restraint without reciprocal commitments. The refusal to observe INF obligations, the author noted, was paired with readiness for dialogue — but only on equal terms.

The publication emphasized that the Kremlin’s move came in response to Western actions, including modernization and redeployment of strike systems, which in Russia’s view shorten decision-making time and increase unpredictability.

According to the piece, some Western circles, particularly advocates of a hard line against Moscow, are eager to «test» Russia’s readiness. Yet, the article pointed out, Moscow has repeatedly shown its ability to respond both symmetrically and asymmetrically, while avoiding direct confrontation with NATO.

At a Russian Security Council meeting on September 22, Putin described the withdrawal from the INF commitments as a forced measure, citing the growing threat posed by weapons deployments in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.