Title: Former Russian President Raises Concerns Over Potential Nuclear Response to Ukraine’s Offensive

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate as tensions rise over Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has recently issued a warning, expressing that Moscow would not hesitate to use nuclear weapons if Ukraine successfully recaptures what Russia considers to be “Russian land.”

An Escalating War of Words

Ukrainian President Zelensky has further fueled the conflict by stating that it would be “absolutely fair” to launch attacks within Russia. In response to this provocative remark, Medvedev explicitly threatened a nuclear strike as a means to win the ongoing war.

Nuclear Deterrence and Executive Order

Medvedev pointed out an executive order signed by current Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2020, which outlines Russia’s stance on “nuclear deterrence.” This document emphasizes Russia’s right to employ nuclear weapons in response to nuclear or other mass destruction weapon usage against Russia or its allies, as well as in the event of aggression that poses a threat to Russia’s very existence.

The Territorial Dispute and Reclamation of Land

Currently, Kyiv is making efforts to reclaim territory in the Donetsk region and the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia had annexed unlawfully. Russia views these regions, with their substantial populations of ethnic Russians, as vital to its national security.

International Concerns and Warnings

Both U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin have voiced concerns over the potential severe repercussions Russia might face if it resorts to nuclear weapons. While Putin has expressed a desire to avoid direct conflict with NATO, he also maintains readiness if circumstances demand it.

Drone Strikes on Moscow

The recent drone strikes conducted by Ukraine on Russian soil, including an attack on a building in Moscow, have further added to the escalating tensions. President Zelensky believes that “war is returning to the territory of Russia” and asserts that it is “inevitable, natural, and absolutely justified” for Ukraine to target locations within Russia.