Putin warns of nuclear deployment amid Russia-Ukraine conflict
In a stark declaration amidst the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has underscored Russia’s readiness to employ nuclear weapons if its statehood, sovereignty, or independence faces imminent threat.
Putin’s assertion, made on Wednesday, is widely viewed as a pointed message to the United States and NATO, urging restraint to avert the peril of a nuclear confrontation.
The timing of Putin’s statement is significant, preceding a presidential election this week where his victory is anticipated to secure another six-year term in office.
Speaking in an interview with Russian state television released early Wednesday, Putin portrayed U.S. President Joe Biden as a seasoned statesman cognizant of the potential repercussions of any escalation. He expressed confidence that the world is not on a trajectory towards nuclear conflict.
Emphasizing Russia’s military readiness, Putin reiterated that the nation’s nuclear forces are fully prepared. He reaffirmed Moscow’s adherence to its security doctrine, asserting the willingness to utilize nuclear capabilities in defense of Russian statehood, sovereignty, and independence.
Since Russia’s incursion into Ukraine in February 2022, Putin has repeatedly underscored his willingness to resort to nuclear weapons if circumstances demand. The latest warning echoes sentiments expressed in his recent state-of-the-nation address, cautioning against increased Western involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, which he warned could escalate to nuclear war.
Responding to inquiries about the possibility of deploying battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine, Putin asserted no such necessity has arisen thus far.
While expressing confidence in Russia’s objectives in Ukraine, Putin hinted at openness to dialogue, contingent upon firm guarantees from the West to safeguard Russia’s interests.
The escalation in hostilities continues unabated, with Russian authorities reporting a significant drone attack early Wednesday, resulting in the downing of 58 drones across six regions. One drone strike caused damage to an oil refinery in the Ryazan region, resulting in injuries and a subsequent fire. Another drone was intercepted near a refinery in St. Petersburg.
Simultaneously, Ukraine reported further Russian attacks, including an airstrike in Myrnohrad that claimed two lives and injured five others. In Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s hometown, a missile strike resulted in the death toll rising to four, with rescue efforts ongoing to extract survivors from the debris.
The escalating conflict underscores the precarious geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe, with the specter of nuclear confrontation looming amidst heightened tensions between Russia and the West.
