MOSCOW, October 11. /TASS/. Those who keep speculating on the issue of nuclear war and an alleged nuclear threat from Moscow should be mindful of their responsibilities, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told Rossiya-1’s 60 Minute show on Tuesday.
"I hope that those who keep speculating on the issue of nuclear war and making allegations about Russia staging provocations involving weapons of mass destruction understand their responsibilities," he pointed out.
When asked about the possibility of a nuclear war, the Russian foreign minister said: "The [Russian] president has repeatedly stated that our nuclear doctrine only provides for retaliatory measures aimed at preventing Russia’s destruction through direct nuclear strikes or attacks involving other types of weapons that pose a threat to the existence of the Russian state."
"I would now advise the Americans and their satellites, who are also involved in such exercises, and not only them, but also our analysts and political scientists, to show maximum responsibility when making public remarks," the top diplomat emphasized.
He pointed to some media publications that downplayed the damage from a potential nuclear war. "I believe that it’s irresponsible journalism and I hope that both journalists and political scientists will refrain from playing such games," Lavrov noted.
"I appeal through you to all those who are interested in this situation and this issue, trying to cover it in the public media: don’t hype it up artificially," the Russian foreign minister added.