In a startling warning, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued a formidable statement on Friday, emphasizing that Moscow is serious about its willingness to utilize tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Medvedev, who is a close ally of Vladimir Putin and serves as the deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, cautioned that international supporters of Kyiv are gravely mistaken if they believe otherwise.

Medvedev's remarks came in response to reports indicating that Western countries, including the United States, have granted Ukraine permission to employ their supplied weapons to target locations within Russia. "The current military conflict with the West is developing according to the worst possible scenario," Medvedev expressed on the platform Telegram.

The former Russian president contends that Russia perceives any long-range weapons used by Ukraine as under the direct control of NATO servicemen. He asserted that such actions should not be seen as mere "military assistance" to Ukraine, but rather as an active "participation in a war against us." Medvedev further warned that these activities could potentially become a "casus belli" - an action that triggers all-out war.

Medvedev went on to caution that if NATO countries take control of Ukraine's long-range weapons or deploy troops to support Kyiv, it would escalate the conflict to a severe extent. "Ukraine and its NATO allies will face a devastating response, one that the Alliance itself will be unable to resist, eventually getting drawn into the conflict," he asserted.

The former Russian president also dismissed claims made by "retired NATO farts" who argue that Russia would never use tactical nuclear weapons. He stated that these lower-yield nuclear bombs, designed for use on the battlefield, have been previously "miscalculated" by those asserting that Russia would not engage in an overt military conflict with Ukraine. Medvedev cautioned against underestimating Russia's preparedness to utilize such weapons, emphasizing that it would be a "fatal mistake."

Referring to Putin's recent threats amid reports that European nations were considering allowing Kyiv to attack Russian territory with supplied weapons, Medvedev remarked that European countries have high population densities, thereby increasing the potential impact and consequences of any conflict.

In addition to the use of tactical nuclear weapons, Medvedev also mentioned a "potential" for Russia to unleash strategic weapons on hostile countries. He strongly emphasized that these statements were not intended to intimidate or bluff, citing the constant escalation in the firepower of NATO weapons being used.

Medvedev concluded by warning that the conflict's progression to its final stage cannot be ruled out. He urged for careful consideration of Russia's position and readiness to defend its interests, painting a grave picture of the ever-increasing tensions between Russia and its opponents.

As the situation between Russia and Ukraine remains highly volatile, Medvedev's strong statements serve as a stark reminder of the escalating threats and potential consequences associated with the ongoing conflict.