Russia Does Not Hurl Nuclear Weapons, Says Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia does not hurl nuclear weapons and has never initiated nuclear escalation rhetoric. While he has not ruled out changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine, he urged against unnecessary mentions of potential nuclear strikes.

During the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin recalled former British Prime Minister Liz Truss's comments upon assuming office, where she claimed to be capable of pressing the nuclear button. Putin reflected, “We have never said such a thing. That’s how it all began. We simply responded that yes, this needs to be taken more seriously.”

Putin emphasized that Russia's nuclear doctrine allows for nuclear weapon usage only in exceptional cases, asserting, “I do not believe such a case has occurred.” He remarked that the nuclear doctrine is a living instrument and that changes could be made to it. However, he called for restraint in suggesting the possibility of nuclear strikes again.

Additionally, he noted that Russia's tactical nuclear weapons are three to four times more powerful than the bombs used by Americans against Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Putin also indicated that while the resolution of military special operation issues could be accelerated, this would come at the cost of increased casualties, stating that the lives of Russian soldiers are more important.

“When we see what the Russian character is capable of, we do not need any nuclear weapons for final victory,” Putin asserted. Previously, he had urged that Russia should not reach the point of using nuclear weapons, adding that the country would employ all available means if its security is threatened.