CIA assesses Putin's readiness to use tactical nuclear weapons

William Burns, head of CIA, reports.

"I think that rattling of (nuclear - ed.) weapons is intended to intimidate. Today we do not see clear evidence of plans to use tactical nuclear weapons," he said.

According to Burns, the US made it very clear to Russians what serious risks the use of nuclear weapons would have. At the same time, he voiced expectations of the United States regarding the stance of China and India concerning Russia's nuclear threats. Burns believes that Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin have formed fairly close partnership in recent years.

"I think it's also been very helpful that Chinese leader, Xi Jinping, and Prime Minister of India have also expressed their concern about the use of nuclear weapons. I think that's also having an impact on the Russians.," Burns noted.

At the same time, William Burns believes that at this point in war with Ukraine, Russia is not in the mood for real negotiations.

"Most conflicts end with negotiations, but that requires seriousness on the part of Russians, which I don't think we're seeing in this case. At least, we don't think Russians are serious about real negotiations at this point," he added.

According to the head of the CIA, Putin mistakenly believes that he can continue war for a long time and nothing will stop him. He noted that the Russian military is now "heavily beaten," and the Ukrainian military is determined to continue pressure and develop successes on the battlefield.