Putin says he’s ready to use nuclear weapons if Russian state at stake, but ‘there has never been such a need’

President Vladimir Putin has stated Russia is willing to deploy nuclear weapons to protect its state, though he clarifies such a necessity has not arisen.

During an interview prior to the March 15 presidential elections, where he is favored to win a fifth term, Putin reaffirmed Russia's military readiness for nuclear conflict, but did not suggest it was immediate.

Putin issued a warning regarding the potential involvement of US troops in Ukraine, implying Russia would see them as invaders. Despite potential confrontations, he believed the expertise in Russian-American relations would prevent direct conflict, stating readiness for all scenarios.

Acknowledging that the US is improving its nuclear capabilities, Putin emphasized that Russia is doing the same. He suggested that weapons are meant for potential use, hinting at Russia's principles for their deployment.

As Russia's military struggles in Ukraine persist, there's growing concern from the US intelligence community of possible nuclear weapon usage by Putin. A recent intelligence report points to Russia's inability to secure decisive military victories and Ukraine's counterattacks as factors raising these concerns.

Russia is not only expanding its nuclear arsenal but also modernizing its delivery systems, aiming to deter adversaries and counter US and NATO conventional forces. Methods include long-range and underwater systems designed to evade US missile defenses.

In response to possible nuclear action by Russia in Ukraine, the US has been actively preparing. The concern primarily revolves around tactical nuclear weapons.

Putin further commented on the economic stability of Russia and the increasing capacity of its military forces amid the invasion of Ukraine. NATO intelligence predicts Russia could outproduce the US and Europe in artillery munitions, implying a potential upper hand in a forthcoming offensive.

Despite increased production, Russia reportedly still falls short of its military requirements according to Western officials. Simultaneously, Ukraine is urgently requesting US aid, with Zelensky warning of catastrophic consequences without support. Recently, the Biden administration pledged an additional $300 million in military aid to Ukraine but recognized the need for more.

In terms of negotiations over Ukraine, Putin expressed willingness to discuss but insisted they be grounded in the current realities rather than "desires after the use of psychotropic drugs." He also called for solid guarantees amidst these talks.

Ukrainian President Zelensky, however, continues to oppose negotiations that involve surrendering territory and has characterized dialogues with dishonest parties as futile.

Putin also claimed that Ukrainian strikes on Belgorod and Kursk were attempts to disrupt the Russian elections, characterizing them as desperate acts amidst Ukraine's own battlefield setbacks.