The former head of UN weapons inspectors in Iraq, Hans Blix, expressed confidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not risk a major nuclear accident.
Critical of Iraq Invasion
This happened in a recent interview with AFP, according to Ziare. At 96 years old, Blix shared from his home in Stockholm, where he has lived for five decades.
Blix, who served as Sweden's foreign minister and led the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1981 to 1997, has a wealth of experience in international diplomacy.
He has been critical of the 2003 Iraq invasion, describing it as a "terrible mistake" by the United States based on faulty intelligence. He believes that the U.S. and the UK acted as "sheriffs of the world" at that time, lacking any imminent threat from Russia or China.
Reflecting on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Blix views Russia's invasion as another "aberration."
He is 'Very Rational'
He believes that Putin, despite his aggressive posturing, is "very rational" and knows what he is doing.
While the IAEA has expressed concerns about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant amid military operations, Blix reassures that Russia would never intentionally attack a nuclear facility.
His optimism stems from the concept of nuclear deterrence; major powers like the U.S., China, and Russia are unlikely to engage in direct confrontation due to the risks involved.
Blix also emphasizes the need for global cooperation to tackle pressing issues like climate change, pandemics, and international crime. He calls for a reconnection between Russia and the world, believing that collaborative efforts are essential for addressing the challenges of a globalized society.
