Escalating Russian Nuclear Tensions: Calls for Expanded Arsenal and Attack Plans

Russian analysts are discussing the possibility of nuclear weapons use against NATO and the United States, raising concerns that Russia could choose to use nuclear weapons if faced with defeat in Ukraine. While the majority of Western national security experts believe that nuclear use is unlikely, there are at least three plausible scenarios for Russian nuclear employment, including tactical use on massed Ukrainian armor, a long-range strike on Kyiv, and a last-gasp destruction in the event of Ukraine's success. The Biden administration is concerned about the prospect of nuclear weapons use by Russia and has cautioned NATO allies, but a better response would be to make it clear that the consequences of such a choice would be disastrous for Putin and his supporters.