'Negotiation or Nuclear War' Putin's Final Ultimatum Possible

Gallyamov "Putin Regrets Ukraine Invasion... Need an Exit to End the War"

Putin Warns of 'Swift Response' to Foreign Intervention in Ukraine Crisis [Image Source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Nayeon] On May 9, Russia's Victory Day, there are speculations that President Vladimir Putin may send a final ultimatum to Ukraine regarding Russia's choices.

According to the British BBC on May 7 (local time), Abbas Gallyamov, a political commentator and former speechwriter for Putin, stated in an interview, "To bring Ukraine to the negotiating table, President Putin might even hint at the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons," emphasizing, "In a fight that is obviously going to be lost, Putin's only winning strategy is to portray himself as a 'complete madman.'"

He continued, "President Putin wants to intimidate Western national leaders and citizens," adding, "(By doing so) he is just waiting for Western countries to tell Ukrainian President Zelensky to 'accept a few of Putin's demands.'"

Gallyamov also said, "Putin regrets the invasion of Ukraine. He needs an exit to end the war without appearing weak."

There are also observations that President Putin may further strengthen his claims of 'denazification' against Ukraine during this Victory Day.

Russia's Victory Day commemorates May 9, 1945, when the former Soviet Union accepted the surrender of Nazi Germany during World War II. When invading Ukraine, President Putin labeled the Ukrainian government as a neo-Nazi regime and used 'denazification' as the justification for the war.

Gallyamov stated, "There is widespread speculation that something will happen on Victory Day. It is a matter of interest among both Putin's opponents and supporters," adding, "If this expectation is not met, Putin will face a political defeat."