Russia's leader, Putin, expresses optimism that Russian nuclear weapons won't be necessary in the context of Ukraine.
In the heat of Ukraine's attack, Putin asserts there's been no urge for Russia to wield nuclear weapons, expressing optimism that it'll stay that way. Yet, this statement doesn't necessarily rule out the possibility of their use, particularly in light of setbacks on the battlefield or a calculated escalation by Putin.
Putin, in a film celebrating his 25 years of power, alleged that Russia faced provocations and desired to err. He pronounces that Russia has enough muscle to end the conflict in Ukraine favorably, sans the need for nuclear weapons. Moreover, he hinted at an eventual reconciliation with the Ukrainian part of the Russian people.
Worth noting, Bob Woodward, the editor of The Washington Post, penned in his book "War" that American intelligence suspected a 50% chance Russia might deploy tactical nuclear weapons in autumn 2022, as a response to battlefield setbacks. Although there hasn't been a fresh update on the specific probabilities from US intelligence, the concern persists that even a sliver of a chance warrants serious consideration by policymakers.
As Russia continues to face international pressure to steer clear of nuclear weapons, the US and its allies are vigilant for any indications suggesting Russia might escalate the conflict using tactical nuclear weapons. The upcoming expiration of the New START Treaty, which regulates long-range nuclear forces of the US and Russia, might influence nuclear dynamics between the two nations, although its direct impact on Russia's use of tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine appears less clear.
In essence, while Putin has adopted a hopeful stance towards avoidance of nuclear weapon use, global tensions and potential unforeseen developments in the conflict keep the international community on high alert.
- In his book "War," Bob Woodward assessed that American intelligence had suspected a 50% chance Russia might deploy tactical nuclear weapons in autumn 2022, should they experience setbacks in war-and-conflicts like Ukraine.
- Despite Putin's optimism about avoiding nuclear weapon use in Ukraine, Woodward's reminder of the concern persists that even a sliver of a chance warrants serious consideration by policymakers.
- As Russia continues to grapple with international pressure and politics regarding nuclear weapons, the general news remains vigilant for any indications of Russia's possible escalation using tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine.
- In light of setbacks on the battlefield or a calculated escalation by Putin, the prospects for Russia's use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine are being closely assessed by the international community.
