Russia to use 'all kinds of weapons' if Ukraine gets nuclear arms from West, Putin warns

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Thursday that if the West transfers nuclear weapons to Ukraine, Russia will respond with all available weapons.

Speaking at a news conference in Kazakhstan's capital of Astana, Putin vowed to prevent the “appearance” of nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

"In this case, (Ukraine gets nuclear arms from the West), we will use everything, I want to emphasize this, all means of destruction at Russia's disposal. That's it… we will not allow this," Putin told reporters, commenting on possible future actions by Russia if Kyiv receives nuclear weapons.

The US media claimed on Wednesday that some American and European officials advocate for providing Ukraine with atomic weapons.