British Colonel Richard Kemp warns of a potential Russian nuclear attack on Ukraine, a move that could drastically escalate the conflict and pose a significant threat to global peace.
Defence News: A grave threat has emerged in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. British Army Colonel Richard Kemp has warned that Russia, under President Vladimir Putin's leadership, may launch a nuclear attack on Ukraine. This statement comes as the conflict between the two nations intensifies. Such an action would pose an extremely dangerous situation not only for Ukraine but for the entire world.
British Colonel Richard Kemp's Warning
Colonel Kemp suggests that Russia might employ tactical nuclear weapons, specifically targeting Ukrainian airfields and military bases. He believes Putin aims to intimidate opponents and consolidate his grip on the war through this action. Kemp also notes that a b response from world leaders might be muted due to their cautious approach towards the nuclear threat, hindering direct intervention.
The State of the War Between Russia and Ukraine
The conflict began in February 2022 when Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. This war has resulted in thousands of deaths and millions of displaced people. In recent months, Ukraine has used long-range missiles supplied by the United States to strike numerous Russian targets, further escalating tensions between Russia and Western nations.
Russia's Nuclear Arsenal
Russia possesses the world's largest nuclear weapons stockpile, comprising approximately 5,889 nuclear warheads, with about 1,674 deployed. The United States has around 5,244 warheads, while the United Kingdom possesses 225. In November 2024, Russia revised its nuclear doctrine, clarifying that it may use nuclear weapons if a non-nuclear state (like Ukraine), supported by a nuclear state (like the US), attacks Russia.
Previous Nuclear Threats
Russia has issued numerous nuclear threats in recent years. In 2022, Russian TV channels discussed potential nuclear strikes on European cities such as London, Paris, and Berlin. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev also warned in 2023 that Russia would retaliate if Western countries supplied nuclear weapons to Ukraine. Western nations, while taking these threats seriously, have stated that no concrete preparations for a nuclear attack have been observed.
Likelihood of a Nuclear Attack
Colonel Kemp believes Putin might use nuclear weapons solely for a demonstration of power, even if the military benefits are minimal. A nuclear attack would not only inflict heavy damage on Ukrainian military bases but also pose a serious threat to surrounding areas and civilians. It could even harm Russian troops. Furthermore, such a Russian action would dramatically increase international tensions, potentially provoking retaliatory actions from other nations.
