Russia 'ready to use' nuclear weapons if state threatened

Vladimir Putin has claimed Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons if there is a threat to statehood, sovereignty or independence. In a rambling interview with Russian state television released early yesterday, Mr Putin also said he hoped the US would refrain from actions that could trigger a nuclear conflict.

- RICH BOOTH

His statement is another blunt warning to the West ahead of a presidential vote this week in which he is all but certain to win another six-year term. Mr Putin has consistently turned towards nuclear threats during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as Western allies have rallied around Kyiv.

Adrienne Watson, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, said in a statement that “Russia’s nuclear rhetoric has been reckless and irresponsible throughout this conflict.”

“It is Russia that brutally invaded Ukraine without provocation or justification, and we will continue to support Ukraine as they defend their people and their sovereign territory from Russian aggression,” she added.

Mr Putin described US president Joe Biden as a veteran politician who fully understands the possible dangers of escalation. He said he does not think the world is heading to a nuclear war. At the same time, he said Russia’s nuclear forces are in full readiness and “from the military-technical viewpoint, we’re prepared”. Mr Putin said Moscow is ready to use nuclear weapons in case of a threat to “the existence of the Russian state, our sovereignty and independence”.

The most recent similar threat came 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.