Ukrainian Intelligence Chief: Putin Unlikely to Use Tactical Weapons in Crimea

The Head of Military Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov does not believe Putin would use tactical nuclear weapons if occupied Crimea is threatened.

“First of all, I know what is really happening out there. Secondly, I know the real characteristics of Russian nuclear weapons. What use would it have? We don’t have big concentrations of troops for which such nuclear weapons would be appropriate,” said the Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Budanov in an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer.

“And to break holes in our defense lines is possible with conventional means of warfare. Besides, using nuclear weapons would lead to big political risks for Putin,” he added.

Budanov also sees no point in negotiating with Russia, since the only viable option is to reclaim the occupied territory.

“We have no option but to get back what was occupied. Otherwise, the state of war will go on forever,” Budanov said.