President Vladimir Putin has cautioned the West that Russia is technically prepared for nuclear conflict and views any deployment of US troops to Ukraine as a significant escalation of the war.
Speaking shortly before an election on March 15-17, which is expected to extend his presidency by another six years, Putin emphasized that while the scenario of nuclear war was not imminent, Russia was militarily and technologically equipped for such an eventuality.
Responding to questions about Russia’s readiness for nuclear conflict, Putin affirmed, “From a military-technical standpoint, we are undoubtedly prepared.” He stressed that any deployment of American troops on Russian or Ukrainian soil would be considered an intervention by Russia.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Putin emphasized that specialists in Russian-American relations and strategic restraint understand the potential consequences. He reiterated Russia’s preparedness while indicating that immediate confrontation was not inevitable.
The conflict in Ukraine has strained Russia’s relations with the West, with Putin warning of the risk of nuclear war if Western forces intervene. Since Russia’s military intervention in February 2022, the situation has escalated, with Russian forces controlling a significant portion of Ukrainian territory.
As the West deliberates on supporting Ukraine, Putin reiterated Russia’s willingness to engage in negotiations based on reality, dismissing fanciful notions.
While reports suggested US concerns about Russia’s potential use of tactical or battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine, Putin affirmed that Russia had never found it necessary to resort to such extreme measures. He emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts and stressed that the use of weapons of mass destruction had never been warranted in the conflict.
