Based on the provided information, Voldemort did express a form of regret regarding Snape's death, but not because he valued Snape personally. His regret was purely functional.
Voldemort's "Regret" Explained
According to the reference, when Voldemort had Nagini attack Severus Snape, he told Snape that he "regrets what must happen."
This statement wasn't an expression of remorse for taking a life or losing a friend. Instead, it signified Voldemort's acknowledgment that by killing Snape, he would lose Snape's useful services.
The Nature of Voldemort's Regret
Voldemort's perspective was entirely self-serving. His "regret" stemmed from:
- Loss of a Useful Ally: Snape was providing valuable assistance to Voldemort (though unbeknownst to Voldemort, Snape was actually serving Dumbledore and the Order of the Phoenix). Voldemort believed Snape's skills and position were beneficial to his cause.
- Pragmatic Consideration: Killing Snape was a necessary step for Voldemort (he wrongly believed Snape possessed the power of the Elder Wand), but it came at the cost of losing a seemingly loyal and effective follower.
It was a regret born out of practicality, not genuine emotional connection or moral introspection.
Why Voldemort Killed Snape Despite "Regret"
Even with this pragmatic regret, Voldemort proceeded with killing Snape because he believed it was essential for him to gain full control of the Elder Wand. His desire for ultimate power always superseded the value he placed on any individual, including his most trusted Death Eaters like Snape.
Therefore, while Voldemort vocalized regret, it was strictly related to the utility Snape provided, not any sense of personal loss or sorrow over his death.
