Putin Affirms No Current Need for Nuclear Weapons in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a televised interview that there is currently no need to use nuclear weapons in the conflict with Ukraine and expressed hope that such a need will not arise. He emphasized Russia's strength and its ability to bring the conflict, which began in 2022, to a 'logical conclusion' on Russia's terms. Despite Russian forces being repelled from Kyiv, they currently control about 20% of Ukraine, mainly in the south and east. Putin has recently shown willingness to negotiate a peace settlement, aligning with suggestions from some U.S. figures about pursuing diplomatic solutions. Nonetheless, concerns about possible nuclear escalation remain a factor in international discussions about the war.