Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that there is no necessity to use nuclear weapons to secure victory in Ukraine, according to Reuters. During the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, moderator Sergei Karaganov, a prominent Russian analyst, inquired whether Russia should consider leveraging nuclear threats against the West over the Ukraine conflict. Putin clarified Russia’s stance on nuclear weapon use, emphasizing that it would only be considered in extreme situations threatening the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The use is possible in an exceptional case – in the event of a threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. I don’t think that such a case has come. There is no such need,” Putin stated.
He further assured, “Our armed forces are not just gaining experience; they are increasing their effectiveness,” negating the immediate need for nuclear weapons. While not dismissing potential changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, which outlines conditions for such weapon use, Putin indicated no current necessity for testing nuclear arms.
These remarks come amid growing expert concerns about the Ukraine war potentially escalating into a nuclear conflict. Meanwhile, Russia has added former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko to its wanted list, citing unspecified criminal charges. This follows the inclusion of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, his predecessor Petro Poroshenko, and various officials and lawmakers from Ukraine and NATO countries.
The list also features Kaja Kallas, the Prime Minister of Estonia, a NATO and EU member. Kallas is known for her strong advocacy of increased military support to Ukraine and tougher sanctions against Russia.
Putin’s statements have heightened the international community’s apprehension about the conflict’s potential escalation, emphasizing the critical need for diplomatic efforts to mitigate the crisis.
