Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a recent interview that Russia is prepared to use nuclear weapons if the security of the state is threatened, although he emphasized that such a situation has not arisen. Putin’s remarks were made in anticipation of the upcoming presidential elections on March 15, where he is poised to secure a fifth term amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Putin expressed Russia’s readiness for a potential nuclear war from a military and technological standpoint, without suggesting an imminent scenario. He also issued a warning that any deployment of US troops to Ukraine would be viewed as intervention by Russia. The President acknowledged the US’s own nuclear developments but noted that readiness for nuclear warfare does not equate to an immediate launch.
In response to concerns raised by US officials regarding a possible Russian nuclear strike on Ukraine, Putin emphasized Russia’s strategic positioning, including the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus. He underscored the necessity of defending territories against potential threats, maintaining that weapons exist for practical use based on established principles.
NATO intelligence assessments indicated that Russia’s defense production exceeds that of the US and Europe in terms of artillery munitions. Despite this advantage, Western officials doubted Russia’s capability to achieve significant battlefield gains in the near future. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s urgent need for US military aid to support its defense efforts has been highlighted by President Volodymyr Zelensky.
During the interview, Putin expressed a willingness to engage in negotiations regarding Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of grounded realities rather than speculative desires. Zelensky, on the other hand, has rejected premature peace talks and remains steadfast in his commitment to protecting Ukrainian territory from external threats.
As tensions persist between Russia and Ukraine, with ongoing attacks near the border, the situation remains complex and potentially volatile. Both sides continue to assert their positions, with diplomatic efforts showing limited progress. Amidst these challenges, the international community closely monitors developments in the region, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.