Russia will face consequences if it uses a so-called "dirty bomb" or any other nuclear weapon. This was announced on Monday by the official representative of the US State Department, Ned Price, writes the Reutets agency.
"It would certainly be another example of President Putin's brutality if he were to use the so-called 'dirty bomb'. There will be consequences for Russia whether it uses a 'dirty bomb' or a nuclear bomb. We have been very clear about that Price told reporters.
He added that it is important for Moscow to know about the "profound nature of the consequences" that will befall it in the event of the use of nuclear weapons.
He did not specify exactly what the consequences would be and whether they would differ depending on the type of weapon.
Price said the United States had seen no signs that Russia was preparing to use nuclear weapons, but fears arose because Russian officials were spreading false claims that Ukraine was preparing to use a "dirty bomb."
"We know the Kremlin's track record when it comes to these kinds of statements," Price said.
He added that the United States sees no reason to adjust its nuclear policy.