(MOSCOW) – A Russian State Duma deputy has called for the use of tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine to force capitulation, though there are currently no signs of preparations for such a strike.
Alexei Zhuravlyov, leader of the Rodina party, made the remarks in a statement reported by The Moscow Times. He said there should be no discussion within Russia about the possibility of using tactical nuclear weapons.
“If necessary, we are obliged to use them. If we have to strike, we will strike. And this is not up for discussion,” Zhuravlyov said.
The statement follows earlier reporting by Bloomberg, citing sources close to the Kremlin, that the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin might view tactical nuclear weapons as a last resort in the event of a sharp deterioration in Russia’s military position. The outlet stressed there were no signs Moscow was preparing to use them.
Russia’s international partners have opposed such a scenario. According to media reports, China has warned the Kremlin against using nuclear weapons.
Zhuravlyov’s remarks come amid renewed attempts by the United States to persuade Moscow to abandon further escalation and return to negotiations on ending hostilities.
The President of Finland has stated he does not believe Russia would attack NATO and has ruled out a nuclear strike on Ukraine.
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