Putin Issues Threat of Nuclear Strikes Against West in Case of Military Intervention in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning on Thursday, stating that his country holds the capability to strike targets in Western nations should they intervene militarily in Ukraine, marking one of his most explicit threats of nuclear escalation since the start of Russia’s invasion.

KEY FACTS

• Putin delivered the threat during his annual State of the Nation address to Russia’s parliament, cautioning that Western military support for Ukraine could lead to a nuclear conflict, ultimately resulting in the “destruction of all of civilization.”
• The warning came in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion that NATO ground troops could be deployed in Ukraine, a proposal met with resistance from other alliance members, including the U.S.
• Putin emphasized that Western nations should recognize Moscow’s capacity to target their territory and expressed frustration, stating, “They think this is a game.”
• Throughout his speech, Putin reiterated his condemnation of the West, accusing it of attempting to undermine Russia’s strength.

This story is developing.