Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a recent documentary that there has been no necessity to use nuclear weapons in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine and expressed hope that such measures will not be needed. Speaking in a state television film reflecting on his time in power, Putin said Russia possesses enough resources to bring the conflict, which began in 2022, to a “logical conclusion” that serves Russia’s interests. He emphasized that, despite Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, a nuclear force remains unnecessary for now.
Putin Defends Doctrine Shift, Zelenskyy Rejects Ceasefire as Symbolic and Insufficient
Putin highlighted the updated nuclear doctrine signed in November 2024, which broadens the conditions under which Russia might deploy nuclear arms, including responding to conventional attacks supported by nuclear-armed states. He also justified the delayed military escalation in Ukraine by referencing 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, claiming it was “unrealistic” at the time to launch a full-scale invasion due to Russia’s unreadiness for confrontation with the West. He maintained that Russia had initially attempted to resolve the Donbas conflict through peaceful negotiations.
Putin Dismisses Nuclear Need in Ukraine as Ceasefire Crumbles Under Renewed Drone AttacksDespite Kremlin announcements of a temporary ceasefire for Victory Day commemorations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the gesture as a superficial move and renewed calls for a more meaningful 30-day ceasefire, echoing proposals from the United States. The Russian truce, set to last from May 8 to May 10, was framed by Moscow as a humanitarian act tied to its World War II victory celebrations. However, the Ukrainian leadership remains skeptical, seeking longer-term commitments to reduce hostilities.
Civilians Suffer as Drone Strikes and Bombings Undermine Declared Ceasefire Efforts
Civilians in Ukraine continue to bear the brunt of the war. A recent Russian drone attack on Kyiv injured 11 people, including two children. Residents described terrifying moments during the strikes, with buildings shaking, fires breaking out, and widespread destruction. Local citizens expressed frustration over the continued violence and stalled peace talks, noting how they suffer daily while political solutions remain elusive.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, violence persisted. Russia launched 165 drones, of which 69 were intercepted and 80 were lost due to electronic interference. Additionally, Russia deployed two ballistic missiles, and Ukrainian regions such as Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy reported civilian fatalities from guided bomb attacks. In response, Russia claimed to have shot down 13 Ukrainian drones overnight. The ongoing strikes underscore the fragile and volatile state of the conflict despite official declarations of temporary pauses in fighting.