President Vladimir Putin warned of a “real” risk of nuclear war if the West escalates the conflict in Ukraine in his annual speech to Russians. Speaking in Moscow, Putin said his soldiers were advancing in Ukraine and warned the West of “tragic consequences” for any country that dared to send troops to Kyiv. His comments appeared to be a response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s refusal earlier this week to rule out sending troops to Ukraine. Western leaders have criticized Putin for his reckless use of nuclear rhetoric.
Putin’s warning comes with recent gains on the battlefield in Ukraine and an economy that has largely defied sanctions. The current state of affairs marks a sharp reversal in fortunes for Moscow over the last 12 months. Putin also touted Russia’s economic performance at home and outlined domestic reforms ahead of next month’s presidential election. There is little doubt about the outcome of the election, with all genuine opposition candidates barred from standing.
Putin ordered forces into Ukraine in February 2022 and has increasingly portrayed himself as a defender of Russian values against the West. He has used the military campaign to escalate a crackdown on domestic opponents. The speech came on the eve of a planned funeral for Putin’s top opponent Alexei Navalny, who died in prison on 16 February in unclear circumstances. Putin has remained silent on Navalny’s death, which prompted outrage at home and abroad.
