Ukraine’s counteroffensive is making gains and Moscow warns they will be forced to ‘use a nuclear weapon’ – London Business News | London Wallet

Ukraine is making advances on the frontlines and the counteroffensive operations in at least three areas is proving to be successful.

According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) on Saturday Ukrainian troops made advances in on the outskirts of Kudyumivka eight miles from Bakhmut.

Troops also made advances in the northern outskirts of Pryyutne in the Donetsk-Zaporizhzhia border and Russian sources have said Ukrainian forces are making continued assault south of Bakhmut.

Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and current deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council has warned there will be a nuclear strike.

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Writing on Telegram Medvedev said, “Our Armed Forces, repelling the counteroffensive of the collective enemy, protect the citizens of Russia and our land.

“This is obvious to all decent people. But beyond that, they prevent world conflict.”

Medvedev warned Moscow will have no choice but to use a nuclear weapon if Ukraine‘s counteroffensive is successful.

Medvedev said, “Imagine if the.. offensive, which is backed by NATO, was a success and they tore off a part of our land.

“Then we would be forced to use a nuclear weapon according to the rules of a decree from the president of Russia.

“There would simply be no other option. So our enemies should pray for our warriors’ [success]. They are making sure that a global nuclear fire is not ignited.”

He was referring to a part of Russia’s nuclear doctrine which clearly sets out that nuclear weapons can be used in response to any aggression against Russia that threatens their existence.

Ukraine’s counteroffensive is all about Kyiv taking back their territory which has been occupied and annexed by Russia, which includes taking back Vladimir Putin’s prized Crimea.

Ukraine’s top military official said last week that their forces will “soon” move to take back Crimea which is strategic for Russia.