Russia continues to display its nuclear capabilities, with President Vladimir Putin using the country’s atomic arsenal as a deterrent against increased Western support for Ukraine. While Russia has been upgrading its nuclear forces, concerns grow over the potential for nuclear escalation amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Russia’s Nuclear Posturing Amid Ukraine Conflict
Amidst growing tensions over the Ukraine war, Russia has repeatedly flaunted its nuclear capabilities to deter NATO from further supporting Kyiv. President Vladimir Putin has showcased Russia’s nuclear arsenal, which remains the world’s largest, as a means to offset NATO’s conventional military superiority.
Putin’s Strategic Use of Nuclear Arsenal
Putin has emphasized Russia’s nuclear capabilities by conducting drills with battlefield nuclear weapons in coordination with Belarus and announcing the production of ground-based intermediate-range missiles. His goal is to discourage what he perceives as threats to Russia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Russia’s Modernized Nuclear Triad
Since taking office, Putin has upgraded Russia’s nuclear forces, including its land-based, sea-based, and air-based weapons. The deployment of new intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), nuclear submarines, and nuclear-capable bombers has solidified Russia’s nuclear triad, which mirrors the capabilities of the United States.
Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons in Play
In addition to strategic nuclear weapons, Russia also possesses a large number of tactical nuclear weapons. These battlefield nukes, which include Iskander and Kinzhal missiles, are designed for use in regional conflicts. Russia has already utilized conventional versions of these weapons in its operations in Ukraine.
Changes to Russia’s Nuclear Doctrine
In a significant shift, Putin revised Russia’s nuclear doctrine to lower the threshold for nuclear weapons use. The new doctrine includes the potential for nuclear strikes in response to conventional attacks from non-nuclear states if they are supported by nuclear powers, increasing ambiguity around Russia’s potential nuclear responses.
The Future of Arms Control and Nuclear Testing
As U.S.-Russia tensions rise, traditional arms control agreements are eroding. Putin has suspended Russia’s participation in the New START treaty and has hinted at resuming nuclear testing if the U.S. does so first. This has raised global concerns about the potential return of nuclear arms races.
Advanced Nuclear Weapon Systems
Russia has continued developing new and advanced nuclear weapons, such as the hypersonic Avangard glide vehicle and the Poseidon underwater drone. These systems, designed to evade missile defenses and cause mass destruction, are seen as key elements in Russia’s future nuclear strategy.
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