Putin issues warning: Russia prepared to deploy nuclear weapons in defense of sovereignty

• President Vladimir Putin has declared readiness to use nuclear weapons if Russia’s sovereignty or independence is threatened.
• Putin has repeatedly discussed his readiness to use nuclear weapons since invading Ukraine in February 2022.
• Russian authorities reported a major attack by Ukrainian drones, with 58 drones downed over six regions.

On Wednesday, President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia is prepared to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty or independence faces threats, issuing another blunt warning to the West just days before an election in which he is all but certain to secure another six-year term.

Since invading Ukraine in February 2022, the Russian leader has repeatedly discussed his readiness to use nuclear weapons. The most recent threat occurred in his state-of-the-nation address last month when he warned the West that deepening its involvement in the fighting in Ukraine would risk a nuclear war.

In an interview with Russian state television released early Wednesday, Putin was asked if he has ever considered using battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine. He responded that there has been no need for that. Nevertheless, the remarks seemed to convey a message to the West that he is prepared to use all means to protect his gains there.

In an apparent reference to NATO allies, he also declared that “the nations that say they have no red lines regarding Russia should realize that Russia won’t have any red lines regarding them either.”

In the interview, Putin characterized US President Joe Biden as a veteran politician who fully comprehends the potential dangers of escalation. He stated that he doesn’t believe the world is heading towards a nuclear war.

At the same time, he emphasized that Russia’s nuclear forces are in full readiness and “from the military-technical viewpoint, we’re prepared.”

Putin stated that under the country’s security doctrine, Moscow is prepared to use nuclear weapons if there is a threat to “the existence of the Russian state, our sovereignty, and independence.” He also reiterated that Ukraine and its Western allies will ultimately have to accept a deal on Russian terms.

“It shouldn’t be a break for the enemy to rearm but a serious talk involving the guarantees of security for the Russian Federation,” he said.

Putin stated that a recent increase in Ukrainian drone attacks deep inside Russia is part of efforts to disrupt the country’s three-day presidential election, which begins Friday, and in which he is poised to win by a landslide, owing to his extensive crackdown on dissent and tight control over Russia’s political system.

Early Wednesday, Russian authorities reported another major attack by Ukrainian drones. The Defense Ministry announced that air defenses downed 58 drones over six regions. One of the drones struck an oil refinery in the Ryazan region, causing injuries to at least two people and igniting a fire. Another drone was intercepted as it approached a refinery near St. Petersburg.

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