Since the beginning of the attack on Ukraine, Russia has repeatedly threatened to use nuclear weapons. Most recently, according to a report, the Russian military discussed the use of a tactical nuclear weapon. However, the US government currently sees no evidence of any corresponding preparations.
High-ranking Russian military officials are said to have recently discussed the possible use of a tactical nuclear weapon in Ukraine, the New York Times reports, citing several high-ranking US officials. It should have been about the questions of when and how such a weapon could be used. These considerations are said to have raised concerns in Washington and allied capitals. Russian President Vladimir Putin is said not to have been involved in the talks.
Intelligence information about those talks was shared within the US government in mid-October, the report said. It shows how frustrated Russian generals are about military failures in Ukraine. Russia recently had to accept military setbacks both in the north-east of Ukraine in the Kharkiv region and in the south around Cherson. Moscow has repeatedly threatened to use nuclear weapons since invading Ukraine in late February.
According to the US government, it is "increasingly concerned" about the possibility of a Russian use of nuclear weapons in the Ukraine war. US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said concerns had grown over the months. "We're watching it as best we can."
According to Kirby, however, there are currently no signs that Russia is preparing to use nuclear weapons. He declined to comment on the New York Times report on such discussions in Russia. "We have made it clear from the outset that Russia's statements about the possible use of nuclear weapons are very concerning and we take them seriously," Kirby said.
