Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated on Wednesday that Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons to defend its sovereignty.
When asked if he would use Russia's nuclear weapons in the conflict with Ukraine, Putin said there has been no need so far. He also mentioned that President Biden, whom he referred to as an experienced politician, understands the risks of escalation. reported.
However, Putin stated that Russia is willing to use nuclear weapons if there is a threat to the existence of the Russian state, its sovereignty, and independence, in line with Russia's security doctrine.
He said, "Everything written in our strategy remains unchanged."
In apparent reference to NATO allies supporting Ukraine, Putin argued that those nations claiming to have no red lines regarding Russia should realize that Russia will also have no red lines regarding them.
His comments echo remarks he made late last month during his address to the Russian Federal Assembly, where he boasted of the nation’s nuclear arsenal — including new hypersonic missiles. In his speech, Putin threatened that any “potential aggressors will face far graver consequences” if they tried to enter Russian territory.
The new threat also comes a day after the White House unveiled a new $300 million emergency military aid package for Ukraine. The package is the first of its kind since late December, as aid legislation remains stalled in Congress.
“Ukrainian troops have fought bravely are fighting bravely throughout this war, but they are now forced to ration their ammunition under pressure on multiple fronts, and we’re already seeing the effects on the battlefield,” national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in his announcement.
“When Russian troops advance and its guns fire, Ukraine does not have enough ammunition to fire back,” he added Tuesday. “That’s costing terrain, it’s costing lives and it’s costing us the United States and NATO Alliance strategically.”
The Associated Press contributed.
