"Putin Warns of Nuclear Conflict Over NATO Intervention in Ukraine"

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned the West against deeper involvement in the Ukraine conflict, stating that it raises the risk of a global nuclear conflict and vowing to fulfill Moscow's goals in Ukraine. He emphasized Russia's nuclear readiness and new weapons, while accusing the West of seeking a "strategic defeat" in Ukraine and attempting to draw Russia into talks on nuclear arms control. Putin's strong statement comes ahead of Russia's presidential election, where he is all but assured to win, with tight control over the political system and limited opposition.