(CNN) — Russian President Vladimir Putin made a clear reference on Wednesday to the possible use of his nuclear arsenal, saying that “those who try to blackmail us with nuclear weapons must know that the prevailing winds may turn in their direction.”
By announcing a partial mobilization of civilians to fuel the war in Ukraine, stressed that Russia has access to “various means of destruction”.
“I want to remind you that our country also has various means of destruction and in some components more modern than those of NATO countries,” he said. “And if the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will certainly use all means at our disposal to protect Russia and our people.”
“This is not a bluff! The citizens of Russia can be sure that the territorial integrity of our homeland, our independence and freedom will be guaranteed, I emphasize this once more, with all the means at our disposal. And those who try to blackmail us with nuclear weapons should know that the prevailing winds can turn in their direction,” he added.
In an interview on ’60 Minutes’ earlier this week, US President Joe Biden addressed concerns that Russia resort to the use of its nuclear arsenal in Ukraine.
Asked by a reporter what he would say to the Russian leader regarding the use of chemical or tactical nuclear weapons, Biden said, “No. No. No.”
“You will change the face of war like never before since World War II,” Biden said, adding that the US response to such actions would be “consistent.”
