Putin’s Stance on Nuclear Weapons: Hopes for Peace in Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine is not necessary at this time and expressed hope it won’t be needed. In a preview of an upcoming interview, he mentioned that Russia has the strength to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

When asked about Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, Putin affirmed, “There has been no need to use those weapons … and I hope they will not be required.” He emphasized that Russia can bring the conflict, which began in 2022, to a conclusion favorable to them.

In November 2024, Putin updated Russia’s nuclear policy to outline when nuclear weapons could be used, even in cases of conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers. This change raised concerns globally about the potential for escalation.

As the war continues, leaders from both sides are discussing ceasefire proposals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently criticized Russia’s announcement of a 72-hour ceasefire intended to coincide with Victory Day. He called it a strategical move rather than a genuine effort toward peace. Zelenskyy is advocating for a longer, more meaningful ceasefire as a step to end hostilities.

This backdrop of tension is highlighted by ongoing violence. Recently, a drone attack in Kyiv wounded 11 people, including two children. Local residents shared their shock at the unexpected violence. Valentyna Fesiuk, an 83-year-old woman, described how an explosion shook her home during the night. “I was just sleeping when the house shook,” she recounted.

Another resident, Viacheslav Khotab, expressed his frustration: “They can’t agree on anything, and we are the ones who suffer the consequences.” Young people like Daryna Kravchuk echoed these sentiments, sharing their fears during air raid alarms and the destruction surrounding them. “It’s very scary to witness,” she said, highlighting the ongoing suffering in Ukraine due to the prolonged conflict.

During the latest assault, Russia launched a significant number of drones, with reports saying they deployed 165 in total. While many were intercepted by Ukrainian forces, the scale of the attack underscores the ongoing hostilities and the challenges faced in achieving peace.

The situation remains fluid, with both military actions and political negotiations continuing to shape the landscape as the war enters its third year.

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Vladimir Putin, Ukraine, Kyiv, Russia, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia government, General news, AP Top News, Russia-Ukraine war, World news, Ukraine government, Russia Ukraine war, Politics