US White House: "Putin's Nuclear Remarks Irresponsible... No Signs of Use"

The White House criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin's mention of nuclear weapons as "reckless and irresponsible."

Adrian Watson, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council (NSC), issued a statement on the 13th (local time) regarding President Putin's remarks on nuclear weapons, saying, "Russia's nuclear weapons rhetoric has been reckless and irresponsible throughout this conflict."

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia [Image source=Yonhap News]

Earlier, President Putin said in an interview with Rossiya 1 and RIA Novosti that "nuclear weapons will be used if the existence of the state is at stake or if our sovereignty and independence are violated." When asked if Russia is prepared for nuclear war, he responded, "From a military-technical perspective, we are prepared for nuclear war."

Spokesperson Watson said, "Russia is the one who brutally invaded Ukraine without any provocation or justification," adding, "We will continue to support Ukraine in protecting its people and territory from Russia's invasion."

Meanwhile, according to major foreign media reports, a White House official who requested anonymity said regarding President Putin's remarks, "We have found no reason to adjust our nuclear posture, nor any indication that Russia is preparing to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine."