Putin threatens nuclear response, Blinken calls it 'irresponsible'
Vladimir Putin once again threatened that Russia may use nuclear weapons against Western countries. The US Secretary of State responded to these remarks. Antony Blinken stated that by making such threats, Putin is "totally irresponsible." He also commented on the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East.
Putin spoke on Wednesday during a Russian Security Council meeting about proposed changes in nuclear doctrine. They include, among other things, a nuclear response even to a conventional attack from the outside.
- Provocative rhetoric about nuclear weapons is the height of irresponsibility - said Blinken in an interview with NBC.
The head of American diplomacy pointed out that the Russian dictator's threats were not accidental. In recent days, the United Nations General Assembly meeting took place in New York, with the participation of many world leaders. During the discussions, words condemning the Russian aggression in Ukraine were frequently spoken.
- I think many in the world have spoken clearly about that when he's been rattling the nuclear sabre - including China, in the past. So I would just say especially to do that now, while the world's gathered... talking about the need for more disarmament, non-proliferation - emphasised Blinken.
Tensions in the Middle East. The world appeals
In the interview, Blinken was also asked about the escalation of the conflict on the Israeli-Lebanese border. For several days, Israel has been conducting airstrikes on targets related to the Lebanese Hezbollah.
A White House representative stated that many countries expect an end to the fighting in the Middle East. According to him, this group includes G7 and European Union countries and "leading Arab nations".
Blinken emphasised that the world is clearly speaking on behalf of practically all key countries in Europe and the region about the need for a ceasefire. He conveyed that on Thursday, he will meet "with Israeli politicians" in New York.
