Putin Warns Against Nuclear Escalation, Reaffirms Russia’s Grip on Ukraine War

By Ahora Qadi

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - On Sunday, Russian state media released a documentary highlighting 25 years of President Vladimir Putin’s leadership. The film included a direct statement by Putin concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, where he firmly asserted that Moscow has the ability to conclude the conflict in a manner that aligns with its strategic interests.

“Russia can bring this war to an end in the way it chooses,” Putin said, underlining Moscow’s upper hand in determining the outcome of the war. Yet, the Russian President simultaneously delivered a sobering remark, stating, “I hope Ukraine will not force us to use nuclear weapons.”

The statement, veiled in both resolve and warning, marks one of Putin’s clearest references in recent months to the possibility of nuclear escalation, reiterating his narrative that Ukraine’s choices and Western involvement could determine the trajectory of the war.

Reflections on Leadership and Future Succession

In the same documentary, Putin, now 72 and a former Soviet KGB officer, also touched upon the sensitive topic of presidential succession in Russia. Without naming a successor, he acknowledged the ongoing contemplation of future leadership, stating, “I continuously think about who should lead Russia next.”

However, he stressed that the ultimate decision lies in the hands of the Russian people: “The next president of Russia will be chosen by its citizens,” he declared, reinforcing a populist tone as speculation continues about whether Putin might step down or seek to extend his rule yet again.

Putin has served as President of Russia from 1999 to 2008, returned as Prime Minister until 2012, and reassumed the presidency in 2012, continuing uninterrupted to the present. His rule, marked by consolidation of power, assertive foreign policy, and centralization of state media, now enters its third decade amid an evolving geopolitical climate shaped by the war in Ukraine and Russia's growing isolation from the West.

Strategic Messaging Amid Conflict

Observer says that Putin’s remarks arrive at a crucial juncture, as Russia seeks to project strength at home while fending off military and diplomatic pressure abroad. The mention of nuclear weapons, though framed as a deterrent rather than an imminent threat, appears carefully timed to send a message of resilience and resolve—not only to Kyiv but also to Western capitals monitoring Russia’s next move.