President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine responded with sharp criticism to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent proposal for a “high-tech duel” involving Russia’s new Oreshnik missile. During a press conference in Brussels on December 19, Zelensky bluntly questioned Putin’s mental state, saying:

“Do you think this is an adequate person? They are just thugs.”

Zelensky’s response came after Putin suggested a provocative “experiment” during his annual end-of-year press conference. Putin proposed launching the Oreshnik missile at a target in Kyiv while challenging Western powers to intercept it with their air defense systems. He claimed the missile was “unbeatable” and that Western air defenses would have “no chance” against it.

Zelensky dismissed Putin’s proposal as the words of “an old fantasist living in his own aquarium”. He characterized Putin’s statements as irresponsible and indicative of Russia’s escalating aggression in the ongoing conflict.

The Ukrainian president’s strong reaction highlights the growing tensions between the two nations and the international community’s concern over Russia’s military actions and rhetoric. Zelensky’s comments also reflect Ukraine’s frustration with what it perceives as continued threats and provocations from Moscow.