Overview
- Sergey Karaganov, a former adviser to Vladimir Putin and honorary chairman of Russia’s Council for Foreign and Defense Policy, issued the threat in a January 14 interview on Tucker Carlson’s show.
- He said a Russian defeat would trigger nuclear use and claimed Europe would be “finished physically,” describing Russia’s task as bringing Europe “to senses” preferably through threats rather than strikes.
- Karaganov dismissed the idea of Russia’s defeat as a “fantastic illusion,” criticized European leaders’ “intellectual incapacity,” and faulted Moscow for being “too patient,” suggesting possible “limited” punishment.
- Reporting places the remarks in a diplomatic context, noting President Donald Trump’s claim that Putin is ready to make a deal and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov’s statement that Moscow remains open to talks.
- Outlets highlighted his history of advocating nuclear coercion and noted broader security tensions, with tabloid coverage amplifying the comments as a direct warning to Britain and stoking World War III fears.