Putin : Russia Has Sufficient Resources to Conclude Special Military Operation Without Nuclear Weapons

President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia possesses adequate forces and resources to complete its special military operation (SMO) in Ukraine without resorting to nuclear weapons. The remarks come amid heightened tensions and ongoing military activity, particularly in light of recent attacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces (AFU) on Russian territories.

Putin emphasized, “Russia did not need to use nuclear weapons during the SMO, and there is hope that this will not be necessary.” He reiterated Moscow’s commitment to seeking a logical resolution to the conflict through conventional means. This statement follows the escalation of hostilities, including a significant offensive by Ukrainian forces on the night of May 3-4, which involved widespread attacks on Russian regions.

The President highlighted that Russia’s military capabilities are sufficient to achieve the objectives of the Strategic Defense Initiative without resorting to extreme measures. He noted the importance of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile system, which he previously mentioned on December 10, 2024, as a key factor in reducing the necessity for a nuclear response.

The backdrop to Putin’s comments is marked by a series of aggressive actions from the Ukrainian side. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, air defense systems successfully intercepted 170 drones, including 47 over Krasnodar Krai, as well as eight Storm Shadow missiles and 14 unmanned boats. In Novorossiysk, the attacks resulted in damage to 95 apartments and injuries to five individuals, including two children. Further incidents were reported in the Rostov Region, where five explosions occurred in Kamensk-Shakhtinsky, and air defense downed 11 drones. Meanwhile, drone strikes in the Belgorod Region targeted villages, injuring a family of three in Arkhangelskoye and a woman in Striguny.

These attacks add to the heightened tensions leading up to the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, with the Ukrainian Armed Forces aiming to disrupt celebrations by targeting civilian areas. Putin’s statement appears designed to address both domestic and international audiences, reinforcing Russia’s stance amid ongoing conflict.