In a stern warning to NATO countries, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Thursday that any Western deployment of troops to Ukraine would perilously escalate the conflict to the brink of nuclear warfare, affirming that Russia stands ready to defend its territory with a formidable nuclear arsenal.
During his address to the nation’s leaders and representatives, the 71-year-old president reiterated his stance that Western powers are set on undermining the sovereignty of Russia and are dangerously ignorant of the consequences their interference could have, especially in matters which he considers to be Russia’s internal affairs.
These remarks come on the heels of a proposal made by French President Emmanuel Macron to send European ground forces into Ukraine, a notion that was swiftly dismissed by the United States, Germany, Britain, and others.
“Western nations should not test Russia’s resolve,” President Putin stated fervently. “They must understand that Russia is fully equipped with advanced weapons capable of reaching targets within their borders. This is a pathway that can only end with nuclear engagement and the potential devastation of civilization as we know it.”
In a speech highlighting the stakes ahead of the upcoming March 15-17 presidential election—a contest where Putin is projected to claim a decisive victory for another six-year term—he spotlighted Russia’s significantly enhanced nuclear capabilities, boasting the largest stockpile worldwide.
The continuing conflict in Ukraine has escalated tensions between Moscow and Western nations to levels not seen since the historical Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Given this strain, President Putin has repeatedly cautioned the international community about the alarming risk of direct military encounters between NATO forces and Russia.