Western intelligence officials have warned that the Kremlin might turn to tactical or other limited nuclear weapons from its arsenal if its invasion of its southern neighbor continues to struggle.  Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in response to a question about the possible use of nuclear arms in the war that Russia will use only conventional weapons in Ukraine.

Top Russian diplomat made the comments Tuesday in an interview with India Today TV.  The comments are among the most categorical from a senior Russian official on the issue, although Lavrov isn’t directly responsible for military decision-making, according to Hindustan Times (HT).

“Russia and the United States issued a statement last year in which they agreed “there must be no nuclear war, don’t even think about it,” said Russian foreign minister.  “In January, Russia and the other four permanent members of the United Nations Security Council adopted a similar stance.”

Western intelligence officials have warned that the Kremlin might turn to tactical or other limited nuclear weapons from its arsenal if its invasion of Ukraine continues to struggle.

In the interview, Lavrov said Russia’s military operation has entered a new phase and will continue. 

Meanwhile, media reports say West has pledged heavier weapons for Ukraine as Russia has started a new offensive in the Donbass region.  Several Western leaders have reportedly vowed to send more, and heavier, weapons to Kiev. 

The BBC says the United States and others vowed to send artillery, anti-tank and air defense aid to Ukraine during a 90-minute video call on Tuesday.

It was amid renewed attacks in the Donbass region that Western leaders met to discuss further military assistance for Ukraine.