Vladimir Putin has made fresh nuclear threats during a special meeting with Russian fleet commanders, linking the use of nuclear weapons to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The Russian president also claimed that Russia 'did not start any war' – comments that reportedly were later removed from the official Kremlin website.
Nuclear Threats and Navy Meeting
During the meeting to discuss the Navy's 'current missions,' Putin launched a tirade on nuclear weapons and future missions. He said: 'Today, we do not just commemorate the remarkable geographical discoveries, key battles and victories of our famed naval commanders; we also assess the current state of affairs in the navy and its prospects, as it is one of the crucial components for ensuring Russia’s security and maintaining global parity through the development of the naval component of our nuclear triad.'
He added: 'The Navy, including the Marine Corps, plays a crucial role in achieving the goals of the special military operation, while ship-borne weapons systems deliver smashing strikes on the enemy with high-precision weapons; the marines keep moving forward, fighting courageously, masterfully and fearlessly.'
Claim of Not Starting the War
According to reports in Russian and Ukrainian media, Putin also made bold claims about the invasion, though the comments appear to have been removed from the official Kremlin website. He allegedly stated: 'I want to stress once again, that we did not start any war. We merely began responding to the hostilities, to the war that today’s Kyiv regime, with the support of the West, unleashed against…the south-east of Ukraine, which had always looked towards Russia. The enemy will be defeated, and victory will be with Russia.'
Official Speech and Future Plans
In his official speech, Putin said: 'Our Navy is capable of effectively addressing the full range of tasks set before it, and those tasks are constantly evolving. The naval component of Russia’s nuclear triad is gaining strength. Serial production of warships and special vessels continues.'
'The provision of advanced weapons and equipment to underwater, surface, coastal and airborne units is being steadily improved. And of course, the professionalism of our sailors, acquired both in training centres and in real combat, along with the ability to adapt swiftly to any changes in the strategic and tactical situation, continues to grow.'
'Tens of thousands of sailors and officers have been awarded high state decorations, including the Gold Star of the Hero of Russia.'
