Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia will prevent any attempt by Ukraine to acquire nuclear weapons and that it will use all of its weapons against Ukraine if such a scenario unfolds. “Russia will use all of its weapons against of Ukraine if Kiev acquires nuclear weapons,” he said characteristically.
The New York Times had reported last week that some unidentified Western officials suggested that US President Joe Biden give Ukraine nuclear weapons before he leaves office.
Putin, speaking in Astana, Kazakhstan, said it was virtually impossible for Ukraine to produce a nuclear weapon, but that it might be able to build some kind of “dirty bomb.”
The conditions for starting talks with Ukraine remain unchanged
The Russian president also said there were no conditions for the start of talks with Ukraine on a potential peace deal, but the conditions he set in June for a deal remain unchanged.
He had said in June that Russia would end the war in Ukraine only if Kiev agreed to abandon its NATO ambitions and hand over all four provinces claimed by Moscow, demands that Kiev quickly dismissed as tantamount to surrender.
He criticized Germany for using illegal measures in relation to the treatment of Rosneft’s assets
The Russian president also said Germany had used “illegal measures” and “unacceptable” methods in handling assets belonging to Russia’s biggest oil producer Rosneft, the Interfax news agency reported.
The future of Rosneft’s German assets, which include a 54.17% stake in the PCK Schwedt refinery, is unclear after Berlin effectively took control of them.
Reassuring about the recent devaluation of the ruble
Referring to the devaluation of the ruble in recent days, the Russian president said there was no reason to panic, saying the sometimes sharp fluctuations in the Russian currency were related to budget payments and seasonal changes.
The ruble started to recover today after falling more than 7% against the US dollar, hitting 115 per dollar in the previous session, after the central bank said it would stop buying foreign currency to stabilize financial markets.
Putin was speaking in Astana, Kazakhstan, after a summit with leaders of the Collective Security Treaty Organization, a security alliance of former Soviet countries.
Putin for Trump
Putin has praised US President-elect Donald Trump, calling him an “experienced and intelligent politician” while expressing concern for his safety following attempts on his life.
Speaking to reporters after a summit in Kazakhstan, he said he was shocked by the attacks on Trump’s family and children by political opponents during the US election campaign.
“As for the newly elected (US) president, he is ultimately an intelligent man, who already has a lot of experience. I think he will find a solution,” Putin said during a press conference on the sidelines of his visit to Kazakhstan.
He also said he was shocked by the way Trump’s family and children had been criticized by political opponents during the US election campaign.
Read also
Irini Murtzoukou: The defamation trial has been postponed
Metro Thessaloniki: “A PAE agent told me that fans “will break everything” – Tachiaos requested the intervention of the prosecutor
After Musk and… Zuckerberg with Trump?
#warnings #Putin #Russia #weapon #Ukraine #acquires #nukes
## Nuclear Brinkmanship: A Conversation with Dr. Anya Petrova
**Introduction:**
Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have escalated dramatically following President Vladimir Putin’s recent statements in Astana, Kazakhstan. Putin declared Russia would use all available weapons, including nuclear weaponry, if Ukraine attempts to acquire nuclear capabilities. This statement follows reports of US officials suggesting the potential transfer of nuclear weapons to Ukraine. WorldTodayNews.com spoke to Dr. Anya Petrova, a leading expert on Russian foreign policy and nuclear strategy, to get her insights on these alarming developments.
**WorldTodayNews.com:** Dr. Petrova, President Putin’s threat to use nuclear weapons if Ukraine acquires them is a profoundly alarming statement. What are your interpretations of this rhetoric?
**Dr. Petrova:** This is a classic example of nuclear brinkmanship. Putin is attempting to deter ukraine and its Western supporters by highlighting the potential for catastrophic consequences. He’s trying to leverage fear to maintain control and prevent Ukraine from acquiring any means of nuclear defense, even if only symbolic. It’s vital to remember this threat comes alongside a broader pattern of nuclear saber-rattling from the Kremlin, aimed at demonstrating Russia’s resolve and deterring Western intervention in the conflict.
**WorldTodayNews.com:** The New York Times reported on discussions amongst US officials regarding the possibility of providing Ukraine with nuclear weapons. How realistic is this scenario, and what would be the potential ramifications?
**Dr. Petrova:** While the idea of transferring nuclear weapons to ukraine is being discussed, it poses enormous risks. Such a move would be seen by Russia as an existential threat and would significantly escalate the conflict. It could spark a direct military confrontation between Russia and NATO, potentially leading to a nuclear exchange. The potential for miscalculation and escalation in this scenario is terrifyingly high.
**WorldTodayNews.com:** Putin stated that while Ukraine acquiring functional nuclear weapons is unlikely, they might be able to create a “dirty bomb.” What is the threat posed by such a weapon, and how credible is this claim?
**Dr. Petrova:** A “dirty bomb” is a radiological device that disperses radioactive material, contaminating a target area. While not nearly as devastating as a nuclear explosion, it would be a horrific act of terrorism with long-term health and environmental consequences. Putin likely uses this claim to further fuel fear and justify his own aggressive stance, while deflecting attention from Russia’s own nuclear arsenal and actions.
**worldtodaynews.com:** Lastly, Putin stated that Russia’s conditions for starting peace talks with Ukraine remain unchanged. What are those conditions, and how likely are they to be met?
**Dr. Petrova:** Putin’s conditions, largely established in June, remain firmly centered on Ukrainian recognition of Russian territorial gains, including the annexation of Crimea and the occupied territories in eastern Ukraine. These demands are wholly unacceptable to the Ukrainian government and its Western allies. Therefore,it’s tough to see how a negotiated settlement can be reached under these conditions. The situation on the ground tragically appears poised for protracted conflict.
**Conclusion:**
dr. Anya Petrova’s insights shed light on the complexities and dangers of the current situation. putin’s threats, threats, and the speculations surrounding nuclear transfers highlight the fragility of the global security habitat. The international community needs to pursue all avenues for de-escalation and dialog to prevent a catastrophic conflict.
