Russia’s alleged use of Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) against Ukraine has increased the concern of countries around the world. This attack is not only a new sign of Russia’s military aggression, but also gives rise to the fear of a nuclear attack. ICBMs are typically used to carry strategic nuclear weapons and their use against a neighboring country like Ukraine is unusual and a serious signal.
The move comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin recently revised his nuclear policy and formally eased the conditions for use of the weapons. This is not only a demonstration of Russia’s nuclear power, but also a clear message to Western countries and NATO that Russia will not hesitate to use its nuclear capabilities. If Russia indulges in a nuclear attack, it could cause huge destruction, because Putin’s country has a sufficient stock of nuclear weapons.
How big is Russia’s nuclear power?
According to the Federation of American Scientists (FAS), Russia has the world’s largest stockpile of nuclear weapons. The country has a total of 5,580 nuclear weapons, of which 4,380 are still active and effective. Of these, 1,710 missiles have been deployed strategically. These include ground-launched ballistic missiles, submarine-launched missiles and heavy bomber aircraft.
Experts say that Russia has so much nuclear power that it can destroy the world many times over. Even during the Cold War, Russia and America had such a huge nuclear arsenal, which had put the entire world in panic.
Putin’s nuclear policy and its impact on Ukraine
According to Russia’s nuclear policy released in 2020, the country will use nuclear weapons only when it is attacked by weapons of mass destruction or its existence is threatened. However, Putin has recently indicated that if Russia feels any major threat, he may move in this direction.
In addition, Putin has also placed Belarus under nuclear protection, further increasing tensions in Europe. Russia has also said that if America conducts nuclear tests, it will also do so. In 2023, Russia had decided to withdraw from the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).
Putin has the final responsibility
The President of Russia has full responsibility for ordering a nuclear attack. He has a special nuclear briefcase called ‘Chajet’, through which he can directly give orders to use nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, tensions between Russia and Ukraine are deepening fears of a nuclear war. This step of Putin is a strong message to the Western countries and NATO that Russia will not shy away from showing its power. The world is now hoping that the path of diplomacy will be adopted to handle the situation, otherwise the consequences could be dire.
