Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s National Security Council, announced on the 24th (local time) that the United States understands Russia’s stance on the issue of a ceasefire in Ukraine.
In an interview with TASS, Shoigu stated, “Our position has been communicated to the US administration and was received with understanding.”
Regarding Russia’s position, he explained, “It starts from the need to remove the initial causes of the Ukraine crisis and to ensure Russia’s security.” He emphasized, “A ceasefire and peace talks are prepared but only possible when our interests and the realities on the ground are fully taken into account.”
This statement from a top Russian security official comes amid US pressure on both Russia and Ukraine, warning that if there is no progress in negotiations regarding a Ukrainian ceasefire, mediation efforts would be halted.
Shoigu also warned that Russia maintains the right to use nuclear weapons if attacked by Western countries.
He elaborated that, according to Russia’s revised nuclear doctrine last year, Russia might consider a nuclear response if there is a conventional attack that seriously threatens the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Russia or its ally Belarus.
He claimed, “We are closely monitoring Europe’s military preparations,” and added, “European politicians and military are already preparing to fight against us by 2030.”
Asked whether Russia could resume nuclear tests, he indicated, “It depends on US actions in this field,” and stated that Russia would take countermeasures if the US resumes nuclear testing.
Shoigu also mentioned that Russia is prepared to resume discussions with the US on issues of strategic stability, emphasizing that “such dialogue can only occur when all elements affecting security, such as NATO expansion, the construction of a global missile defense system, and the deployment of ground-based intermediate and short-range missiles, are comprehensively considered.”
He pointed out that while Russia is willing to engage in dialogue with the US, “historically, relations with the US have only been trustworthy through concrete actions rather than verbal statements.”
On Asian regional security, Shoigu criticized the trilateral cooperation between South Korea, the US, and Japan, as well as the AUKUS alliance (US, UK, Australia), saying, “Western countries are trying to dismantle ASEAN and create a NATO-like structure in Asia.”
He also mentioned that the Russian Armed Forces would soon clear out all enemy forces from the Kursk region near Russia’s southwestern border with Ukraine, which is currently partially occupied by Ukrainian forces.