Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov warned on Tuesday of "tragic and devastating" consequences if the West underestimates Moscow's readiness to defend itself, stating that the United States and its allies are facing a major nuclear power. Ryabkov noted that the West has underestimated "Russia's readiness to defend itself and ensure its interests in any situation." He added, "I do not even want to assume that this underestimation could become tragic and devastating," pointing out that the West has chosen to confront a major nuclear power.
Ryabkov continued, saying, "There are various ways to respond to this, including discussion or scientific response. We have the necessary resources to send signals to the West in the field of nuclear deterrence, even in the absence of our opponents' willingness to engage in balanced dialogue. However, there is a risk that cannot be underestimated, which is that they may make a mistake on their part. We will try not to make it ourselves."
In this context, Ryabkov mentioned that "Russia has made progress in nuclear deterrence that allows it to ensure its security for decades to come, even in an era dominated by advances in artificial intelligence." In response to a question during a conference in Moscow about whether Russia could guarantee nuclear security in the age of competition in the field of artificial intelligence, Ryabkov affirmed its capability. He pointed out that "in recent years, a significant amount of fundamental work has been carried out in the field of nuclear deterrence that will allow us to ensure our security for decades to come."
Ryabkov also oversees relations with the United States, which diplomats from both countries say are at their lowest levels since the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 due to the conflict in Ukraine. Ryabkov warned that if the West underestimates Moscow's resolve, it could lead to "tragic and lethal" consequences, as the United States and its allies are facing a major nuclear power—Russia. He stated, "Our common task is to prevent the world and the multipolar world, above all, from slipping into nuclear chaos."
