[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Russian President Vladimir Putin recently referred to nuclear weapons as a "deterrent" and mentioned the possibility of their use following a series of attacks on military facilities within mainland Russia. With the onset of winter, President Putin also conveyed a message that this war (special military operation) could be prolonged.
On the 7th (local time), according to AP and Bloomberg News, President Putin said at the annual meeting of the Human Rights Council broadcast on TV, "The risk of nuclear war is escalating," adding, "Russia considers nuclear weapons as a means of defense and a potential counterstrike." He emphasized, "We possess the most advanced nuclear weapons, but we do not want to wield them. We regard such weapons as a deterrent."
He continued, "Unlike the United States, we have not deployed tactical nuclear weapons in other countries. Russia will use all means to defend its territory and allies." He claimed that "Russia is not insane and understands what nuclear weapons are," accusing the West of posing nuclear threats. He also said, "These (nuclear weapons) are naturally deterrents, not tools to escalate conflicts," and added, "I hope everyone understands this."
President Putin's remarks came amid Russia's response to a series of drone attacks launched by Ukraine against Russia.
Earlier, on the 5th, two military airfields in Ryazan and Saratov regions of Russia were attacked by drones. The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that this incident was an attack by Ukraine. Subsequently, Russia launched a large-scale airstrike, firing over 70 missiles across Ukraine. However, on the 6th, another drone attack targeted an airfield in Kursk region near the Ukrainian border.
Following this, President Putin convened the National Security Council. The Kremlin also stated, "We are taking all necessary measures to ensure security against terrorist attacks on Russian territory."
At the meeting, President Putin mentioned the possibility of a prolonged war in Ukraine. He said, "Regarding the duration of the 'special military operation,' of course, it could be a long process," adding, "However, through this process, new territories have been acquired, and the Sea of Azov has become an inland sea. This is a very important outcome for Russia."
However, President Putin drew a line by stating that there would be no additional mobilization orders as some have suggested.
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