DISINFO: Putin trying to prevent a nuclear war over Ukraine
SUMMARY
Putin is showing great self-restraint. He does not want a nuclear war, which is right. He is trying to prevent a possible clash with Ukraine’s allies, which may develop into a nuclear confrontation.
RESPONSE
This is a recurring disinformation narrative from pro-Kremlin outlets, accusing Ukraine’s allies and partners of seeking a direct confrontation and, possibly, a nuclear war with Russia, and implying at the same time that Russia is open to peaceful dialogue. This claim was made in the context of Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Putin has repeatedly hinted at a possible unconventional strike or other unpredictable measures against countries which support Ukraine. In his televised address on 24 February 2022, when announcing the launch of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified aggression, he voiced a covert threat to Ukraine's foreign allies:
“I would now like to say something very important for those who may be tempted to interfere in these developments from the outside. No matter who tries to stand in our way or all the more so create threats for our country and our people, they must know that Russia will respond immediately, and the consequences will be such as you have never seen in your entire history. No matter how the events unfold, we are ready. All the necessary decisions in this regard have been taken. I hope that my words will be heard.”
On 21 September 2022, Putin said:
“In the event of a threat to the territorial integrity of our country and to defend Russia and our people, we will certainly make use of all weapon systems available to us. This is not a bluff.”
Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, who is currently deputy head on the country’s security council, is also often repeating nuclear threats. Medvedev said in March 2023: “Every day when they (Ukraine’s allies) provide Ukraine with foreign weapons brings the nuclear apocalypse closer.” In July 2023, he said Russia might be forced to use a nuclear weapon if Ukraine’s counteroffensive succeeds.
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