Blinken reveals China’s caution to Russia on nuclear weapons use

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed that Russia discussed the possibility of using nuclear weapons in the war against Ukraine, prompting concern from China.

Blinken shared these remarks with the Financial Times, highlighting growing global fears over the potential escalation, Caliber.Az reports.

The US Secretary of State emphasized that the US is "very concerned" by the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin considering the use of nuclear options against Ukraine. He pointed out the gravity of such a move, stating, "Even if the probability went from 5 per cent to 15 per cent, when it comes to nuclear weapons, there is nothing more serious."

Blinken also noted that China had expressed its concerns directly to Russia. According to Blinken, the US has reason to believe that China warned Russia, saying, "Don’t do this."

The Secretary of State compared this situation to an earlier instance when the US reportedly warned China about the possibility of Russia deploying nuclear weapons in space.

Regarding US support for Ukraine, Blinken addressed criticisms of the Biden administration's pace in providing weapons, explaining that the delay was necessary to ensure the systems provided could be operated and maintained effectively.

He stressed that Putin has suffered a “strategic defeat” and that NATO is bigger and more resourced than ever. Without mentioning Trump’s criticism that Europe must do more, he says US allies have provided $150 billion in addition to the $100 billion from Washington. “I don’t think anyone can complain that they haven’t done their fair share.”

By Tamilla Hasanova