Putin calls Zelenskyy’s nuclear comments ‘a dangerous provocation’
Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for mentioning the potential need for a nuclear deterrent. Zelenskyy’s comments came during a meeting of NATO defense ministers, where he stated that Ukraine would need nuclear weapons for protection or be part of an alliance.
Putin labeled this as a “dangerous provocation” and warned of corresponding reactions to any steps in that direction. He emphasized the ease of creating nuclear weapons in the modern world, raising concerns about Ukraine potentially pursuing this path in the future.
Contrary to the interpretation of Zelenskyy’s remarks, his chief of staff clarified that Ukraine did not have intentions to pursue nuclear weapons. Ukraine relinquished its nuclear arsenal, receiving security assurances in return. However, recent Russian military exercises near the Ukrainian border have heightened tensions in the region.
The situation underscores the delicate balance of power in the region and the importance of diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation.