Russian President Vladimir Putin is rethinking his strategy as Western nations show less concern over Moscow’s nuclear threats, according to recent reports.
Repeated Threats Lose Impact
In early September, Putin warned that supporting Ukraine’s attacks on Russian territory could mean war with NATO, prompting Russian propagandists to mention nuclear weapons. However, the Russian leader now recognizes that his repeated threats are losing their impact.
A Russian official, speaking anonymously, acknowledged the "oversaturation of nuclear threats," saying that these warnings no longer instill fear in the West, according to Ziare.
Similarly, a Russian academic close to high-level diplomats confirmed that using nuclear weapons is now seen as the least likely option. Such an escalation would likely alienate Russia's allies and prove ineffective militarily.
Seraching for Alternatives
Tatiana Stanova, a political analyst, suggests Putin is searching for alternatives to maintain his "red lines" against Western support for Ukraine.
Nuclear measures or direct attacks on NATO territory, she believes, would only be considered if Putin felt an existential threat to Russia. Instead, Moscow might resort to covert operations or leverage proxy groups like Yemen’s Houthi militia to disrupt Western interests.
While Putin remains under pressure to react as the West continues to support Ukraine, Russian officials increasingly recognize that their "red lines" are being ignored.
Kremlin insiders suggest possible future responses could include attacks on military infrastructure or the closure of diplomatic missions.
