Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed he had no plans to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, despite previous threats to do so. His comments came as the U.S. Department of Defense released a set of major strategy documents. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl joined Nick Schifrin to discuss.
Judy Woodruff:
Today, Russia's President Vladimir Putin claimed that he had no plans to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine, despite previous threats to do so and warnings about the possible detonation of a radiological device in Ukraine.
His comments came as the U.S. Department of Defense released a set of major strategy documents that describe China as the United States' most comprehensive challenger, but Russia as an acute threat.
Nick Schifrin reports.
Vladimir Putin, Russian President (through translator):
We stand at a historical frontier. Ahead is probably the most dangerous, unpredictable, and, at the same time, most important decade since the end of World War II.
Nick Schifrin:
President Vladimir Putin spoke as Russia launched its annual nuclear exercises. He once again accused Ukraine of planning a dirty bomb attack on its own territory, but insisted Russia posed no nuclear threat.
Vladimir Putin (through translator):
We don't need a nuclear strike on Ukraine. There is no point, either military or political.
Lloyd Austin, U.S. Secretary of Defense: We are certainly concerned about escalation.
Nick Schifrin:
In Washington today,...
A federal jury has convicted a San Francisco man of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering in connection with a scheme involving fraudulent insurance claims on already-wrecked vehicles, pros...