Will Russia use nuclear weapons to win the war in Ukraine? Vladimir Putin responds | World News

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said there is no need to resort to nuclear weapons to ensure victory in Ukraine, Reuters reported.

At the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, moderator Sergei Karaganov, an influential Russian analyst, asked Putin whether Russia should hold a “nuclear gun to the head” of the West over the Ukraine. However, Putin raised the possibility of situations in which Russia could use nuclear weapons.

“This use is possible in an exceptional case, in the event of a threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. I do not think that such a case has arisen. This is not necessary,” Putin said .

“And we don't need it. Because our armed forces are not only gaining experience, they are also increasing their effectiveness,” the Russian leader said.

Putin said he did not rule out changing Russia's nuclear doctrine, which sets out the conditions under which such weapons can be used. He also said that if necessary, Russia could test a nuclear weapon, although he did not see the need for one at the moment.

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Putin's remarks come as experts express concerns that the war in Ukraine could escalate into nuclear war.

Russia has included former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on its wanted list. Russian state news agency Tass said Tymoshenko was wanted on unspecified criminal charges.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his predecessor Petro Poroshenko are already on Russia's wanted list. In the list, Russia also included several other officials and lawmakers from Ukraine and NATO countries.

Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister of NATO member and EU member Estonia, is also on the list. Kallas supports increased military aid to Ukraine. and tougher sanctions against Russia.