Russian politicians react to US reports on missile use in Ukraine

Russian politicians are reacting strongly to reports that the U.S. has authorized Ukraine to use long-range missiles against targets in Russia. This marks a potential shift in U.S. policy regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict, though no official announcement has been made. Maria Butina, a member of the Russian parliament, warned that this decision could escalate tensions and lead to World War Three. President Vladimir Putin previously stated that Western support for such actions would mean direct involvement of NATO in the conflict. In related news, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un accused the U.S. of using Ukraine as a proxy in its conflict with Russia. He claimed this could lead to a global conflict and vowed to strengthen North Korea's nuclear defenses.