I hope there is no need for use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin said there was no need for the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine and hopes there is no.

In a detached part of the interview with Russian television – which will be broadcast later – published on Sunday in the telegram, Putin said Russia has the power and tools to bring the conflict to Ukraine to a « logical conclusion ».

Responding to the question of Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory, Putin said: « There was no need for the use of these (nuclear) weapons … and I hope it does not need it. »

« We have enough power and tools to bring, what started in 2022, in a logical conclusion, with the result Russia requires, » he said.
In November 2024, Putin signed the revised version of Russia’s nuclear doctrine, setting out the circumstances that allow him to use Moscow’s nuclear arsenal – the largest in the world.

This updated version of the doctrine reduced the criteria, giving it the opportunity to use nuclear weapons even in response to a conventional attack, supported by a nuclear power.

Putin’s statements come at a time when the Russian occupation of Ukraine is in the third year and when both sides have disputes over proposals for a ceasefire.

On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow’s announcement of a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine next week to mark the day of World War II was a « theatrical show » as Russia plans to celebrate May 9 with a series of events, including a military parade in Moscow.
He has sought a 30-day pause, initially proposed by the United States, but not accepted by Russia.