In response to questions regarding the possibility of nuclear escalation, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that discussions about even worse actions arise among everyone due to Russia’s past deeds. However, he does not anticipate Moscow taking such a drastic step at this time.
"As of today, I do not believe they will risk using nuclear weapons. At that point, I am confident they would have no allies left. Countries like America and China would find such moves extremely dangerous for nuclear powers," Zelensky remarked.
He added that the use of nuclear weapons by a single nation could create a perilous precedent for conflicts in other regions, particularly in the Middle East.
"If they were to use nuclear weapons once, they might consider using them again. Therefore, I think Putin will not risk nuclear weapons," the president emphasized.
Context
- In the fall of 2022, Putin claimed readiness to use nuclear weapons but later reconsidered. At that time, U.S. intelligence estimated a 50% likelihood of a Russian nuclear strike on Ukraine.
- Since then, Moscow has made repeated threats regarding nuclear weapons, including in the fall of 2024. Zelensky responded that Putin should fear using nuclear weapons, but "nobody knows what is on his mind."
- On January 3, 2025, then U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the U.S. had reason to believe that China had communicated with Russia, advising, "Do not do this."
