Russian Official Warns of Potential Nuclear Response to European Support for Ukraine

A prominent Russian foreign policy strategist, Sergei Karaganov, has stated that Russia may resort to nuclear weapons if European countries continue to support Ukraine. Karaganov, the honorary chairman of Russia's Council for Foreign and Defence Policy, indicated that Russia would initially use conventional weapons but would escalate to nuclear attacks if Europe did not surrender. He expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a nuclear retaliation from Britain or the United States. Karaganov's comments were made during an interview with the BBC, where he emphasized the need for Europe to cease military and financial support for Ukraine amidst Russia's ongoing invasion. He stated, 'If they continue this war, a European war with American help, against Russia, on Ukrainian territory, sooner or later we'll feel the need to escalate.' He added that the initial attacks would be conventional, but if Europe did not surrender, nuclear options would be considered. Karaganov acknowledged Russia's losses in the conflict but criticized the government's response as insufficiently aggressive. His remarks come as tensions escalate between Russia and European nations, with accusations of Russian cyber-attacks and sabotage. In a separate incident, a drone carrying explosives was discovered near Ukrainian cargo planes at Leipzig airport in Germany. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Europe of waging war against Russia, citing the supply of weapons to Ukraine. The Kremlin has framed the conflict as a European war against Russia, despite its initiation of the invasion in 2022. President Vladimir Putin has shown little willingness to cease hostilities, maintaining confidence in a military victory. Additionally, Russia recently warned NATO of its readiness to use nuclear weapons if the alliance attempted to isolate Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave. A document sent to NATO described the alliance's actions as a 'dangerous and reckless course' that could lead to armed conflict. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte responded by reaffirming the alliance's defensive posture and urging Russia to cease its nuclear threats.