29-2-2024 (MOSCOW) In his annual address to the Russian nation, President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning, emphasizing a “real” risk of nuclear war if the West continues to escalate the conflict in Ukraine. Speaking in Moscow, Putin presented a defiant stance, asserting that Russian soldiers were making advances in Ukraine. He cautioned Western nations about the “tragic consequences” they would face if they dared to send troops to Kyiv.
Putin’s address was notably responding to French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent refusal to rule out sending troops to Ukraine, a stance that drew swift rejection from other European leaders. The Russian President expressed concern over potential Western military contingents entering Ukraine, stating that any intervention would have severe consequences. He underlined that Russia possesses weapons capable of reaching targets on foreign territory, creating a genuine threat of a conflict involving nuclear weapons and the potential destruction of civilization.
The remarks by Putin appeared to be a reaction to perceived provocations and discussions within Western circles about military involvement in Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has seen Moscow regain momentum on the battlefield, leading to a shift in fortunes compared to the previous year. The Russian leader highlighted the increased combat capacity of Russian armed forces and their confident advances in various regions, without specifying details.
While Putin showcased Russia’s advanced weaponry, including supersonic missiles, he dismissed reports of Russia preparing to deploy a nuclear weapon in space, labeling it a ploy by Washington to influence arms control talks.
The address also touched on economic aspects, with Putin highlighting Russia’s resilience to Western sanctions through significant investments in military production and benefits for soldiers. The President outlined small-scale domestic reforms and economic achievements, presenting a positive picture to Russians ahead of the upcoming presidential election.
Putin’s speech comes amid an election campaign where he is expected to secure another term, facing minimal opposition due to the barring of genuine opponents and the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. The Russian President has capitalized on the military campaign to strengthen his position domestically, portraying himself as a defender of Russian values against perceived Western threats.
