A senior Russian adviser has warned that Moscow could consider nuclear strikes against the United Kingdom and Germany if the war in Ukraine continues for another two to three years. The remarks reflect a sharp escalation in rhetoric. Moreover, the conflict shows no sign of resolution.
In an interview with Tucker Carlson, Sergey Karaganov, a top adviser to Vladimir Putin, said Russia is openly debating the possible use of nuclear weapons against Europe.
Karaganov heads the Council for Foreign and Defence Policy. He claimed the war would only end once Russia achieves what he described as the “total defeat of Europe,” without fully eliminating the continent.
He argued that Moscow is not fighting only Ukraine, but Europe as a whole. He accused European powers of driving global conflicts and blamed the continent for drawing the United States into wars repeatedly.
Karaganov said Europe has failed politically and economically. He alleged that European leaders are reverting to centuries-old behaviour, which he described as destructive to global stability.
He warned that any scenario close to a Russian defeat could trigger nuclear escalation. Karaganov said European leaders misjudge Russia due to what he called intellectual weakness.
When asked about the consequences if Europe were to eliminate Putin, Karaganov said Russia would respond with punishment. He added that such an outcome would end badly for Europe.
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The comments come as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues with heavy casualties and no decisive breakthrough. The United States remains engaged in diplomatic efforts to broker a peace deal. However, talks have so far failed to deliver progress.
Analysts say the remarks underscore growing risks of escalation as the conflict enters another prolonged phase. This increases concerns across Europe and NATO about long-term security and stability.