Russia Threatens Nuclear Weapon Use If Existence Is Endangered

The Kremlin has warned that Russia could resort to the use of nuclear weapons if the country’s existence is threatened, reiterating the conditions outlined in its nuclear doctrine.

Naijapunchnews reports that the warning was issued by Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for President Vladimir Putin, during an interview with Swiss newspaper Die Weltwoche.

Peskov said Russia’s nuclear policy clearly defines the circumstances under which nuclear weapons may be deployed, insisting that such weapons would only be used if the survival of the Russian state was at risk.

According to him, the country’s nuclear doctrine is straightforward and leaves little room for ambiguity.

“If something endangers the existence of the Russian state, then nuclear weapons will be used. Otherwise, no,” Peskov said.

He dismissed suggestions that Russia was preparing to launch a broader regional conflict, describing such claims as speculation.

“The rest of the statements are speculations,” he added, referring to comments by several European governments regarding Russia’s military intentions.

Comments Come Amid NATO Security Concerns

Peskov’s remarks come as tensions between Russia and the West remain high over the ongoing war in Ukraine.

During a recent meeting in Ankara, NATO leaders reaffirmed their commitment to collective defence, describing Russia as a long-term threat to Euro-Atlantic security and stability.

The alliance reiterated its resolve to strengthen cooperation and maintain support for Ukraine as the conflict continues.

Kremlin Blames Zelensky for Prolonging War

Commenting on the war in Ukraine, Peskov claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had originally promised to bring an end to the conflict when he sought office.

He argued that the war could be brought to a close if Ukraine withdrew its forces from territories that Russia claims to have annexed and formally recognised those regions as part of the Russian Federation.

According to Peskov, such a move would end hostilities.

“Zelensky came to power with a promise to end the war. He can end it by withdrawing troops from the Donbas from the regions that have now become part of Russia and by recognising the situation that has become de jure,” he said.

Ukraine, however, continues to reject Russia’s claims over the occupied territories, insisting that they remain internationally recognised as Ukrainian land.

Russia Says It Is Fighting a Coalition

Peskov also argued that the conflict has evolved beyond a war between Russia and Ukraine, claiming that Moscow is effectively confronting a coalition of Western nations.

He alleged that Ukraine is receiving extensive military assistance from the United States and several European countries, including large quantities of weapons and equipment.

According to the Kremlin spokesman, this level of foreign support has transformed the conflict into a broader geopolitical confrontation between Russia and its Western rivals.

The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has continued to fuel tensions between Moscow and NATO, with both sides repeatedly exchanging accusations over the escalation of the conflict.