Kathmandu— The Kremlin has denied reports suggesting plans to escalate the conflict in Ukraine, stating that Russian forces are already making advances. This response comes amid speculation – fueled by a Bloomberg report citing sources close to the government – that Moscow may intensify long-range missile and drone strikes and could even consider using tactical nuclear weapons. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov distinguished between battlefield action and retaliation for Ukrainian attacks targeting Russia’s economic infrastructure.

Ukrainian Offensive Prompts Russian Response

Ukraine recently launched a 40-day “pressure campaign” involving intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries, civilian vessels in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, and commercial warehouses. Ukrainian officials have stated these strikes aim to pressure Moscow into accepting Kiev’s terms for ending the conflict and to demonstrate continued viability to potential allies like the United States. According to reports, this campaign also seeks to persuade Washington to approve additional deliveries of Patriot missile interceptors, as stockpiles are dwindling due to use in other conflicts.

Russia Cites Nuclear Doctrine

The Bloomberg report suggested that President Vladimir Putin might consider using tactical nuclear weapons as a last resort. Peskov clarified that Russia’s nuclear doctrine permits the use of such weapons only in response to a nuclear attack or if the Russian state faces an existential threat during conventional conflict. Putin himself has described Ukraine's campaign as opening “Pandora’s box,” and retaliatory strikes have significantly disrupted Ukrainian shipping through Black Sea ports, causing congestion in neighboring Romania.

Economic Impact and Logistical Bottlenecks

Retaliatory Russian strikes have effectively paralyzed Ukrainian shipping through the Black Sea, leading to a buildup of cargo traffic. Reuters reported that approximately 70 cargo ships are currently waiting to pass through the Danube-Black Sea Canal, creating a major logistical bottleneck as traffic is rerouted. Peskov indicated that further attacks on Russia’s economic infrastructure would elicit a “heavy response.”

Internal Political Challenges for Ukraine

Amidst the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky's government is facing increasing political pressure due to growing corruption concerns within his inner circle. Last week, Zelensky was forced to dismiss a deputy head of his office following accusations of money laundering related to bail for a former energy minister involved in a separate graft case.

The situation remains tense as both sides continue military operations and navigate internal political challenges, with Russia maintaining its position that escalation is unnecessary given current battlefield dynamics.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.