The main reason for the hesitation of Western countries is the fear of nuclear escalation. But it was exaggerated, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated.
According to him, Vladimir Putin will refrain from using nuclear weapons in Ukraine out of a sense of self-preservation.
“He may be irrational, but he loves his own life,” Zelenskyy said.
He also suggested that there was one more reason for the West's hesitation. The president believes that some countries are seeking to maintain trade and diplomatic ties with Russia.
“Everyone keeps the door slightly ajar,” he said.
Russia's nuclear threats
Since the onset of the invasion of Ukraine, Russia has been threatening to use nuclear weapons. These signals are particularly aimed at Western countries aiding Ukraine with weapons.
Today, the Russian Ministry of Defense began the first stage of drills involving the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. They aim to respond to "provocative statements and threats from certain Western officials towards the Russian Federation."
