Sergei Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, has asserted that the possession of nuclear weapons is crucial to safeguard his nation from external security threats and serves as a constant reminder to the West of the potential consequences of nuclear conflict.
Lavrov’s recent statement follows a surge in military rhetoric and actions by Moscow, particularly since Russian forces invaded Ukraine last year.
In an interview with the state magazine, The International Affairs, Lavrov stated, “In the face of significant external threats to our country’s security, the possession of nuclear arms remains the sole viable response.”
Last month, Dmitry Medvedev, a former Russian president, had speculated that if Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian forces were to succeed, Moscow might consider deploying nuclear weapons as a strategic response.
