Russian President Vladimir Putin accused NATO of preparing for war against Russia, according to NTV — Putin claimed the West is openly discussing war preparations and increasing military budgets. Putin also criticized NATO and EU states for using false claims to justify militarization.

Military Budgets and Diplomatic Stance

According to NTV. Nearly 40% of Russia’s budget goes to military, defense, and security; Putin emphasized Russia’s commitment to a multipolar international system that ensures the military security of all states. “Gleichzeitig sind wir bereit. Auf alle äußeren und inneren Bedrohungen operativ und angemessen zu reagieren,” warned Putin, as reported by WELT.

Fuel Crisis in Siberia and Crimea

Russian regions like Omsk. Novosibirsk, and Irkutsk are experiencing fuel shortages due to Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil refineries and storage facilities, according to La Vanguardia. The crisis has led to purchase limits on gasoline and diesel, though Russia, the world’s third-largest oil producer, is considering importing and subsidizing fuel to manage prices, according to Védomosti.

The most affected area is Crimea, where long lines at gas stations began in late May. Bombing of oil facilities and logistics routes has led to supply shortages, according to La Vanguardia.

Ukraine’s Military and Nuclear Warnings

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj described the Ukrainian military as the “second strongest army in NATO,” according to WELT. Meanwhile, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev suggested Russia might use nuclear weapons in the future, according to 20Minutos. Medvedev criticized “terrorist attacks” on Russian cities and argued that current war laws are obsolete.

“Es hora de declarar abiertamente que ya no existen, ni pueden existir, reglas con respecto al Kiev neonazi,” said Medvedev. He emphasized that deliberate civilian destruction should remain a limit, but everything else is permissible.

Medvedev’s comments came after a significant Ukrainian drone attack on a major Moscow oil refinery, according to 20Minutos. The attack caused fires and forced evacuations at the country’s largest airport.