Russian President Vladimir Putin raised the possibility of Russia resuming nuclear testing for the first time in over three decades and potentially withdrawing its ratification of a landmark nuclear test ban treaty. He also claimed that Moscow had successfully tested a nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile called the Burevestnik.
While Putin emphasized that there was no need to alter Russia’s existing nuclear doctrine, which dictates a swift nuclear response to any attack on Russia, he acknowledged the debate surrounding the idea of resuming nuclear testing. Some hardline political scientists and commentators within Russia have advocated for such a move to send a message to Western adversaries.
The U.S. has signed but not ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test Ban Treaty, whereas Russia has both signed and ratified it. Putin suggested that Russia could theoretically behave similarly to the United States by withdrawing its ratification. However, he noted that this decision would ultimately be a matter for the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament.
Putin’s remarks came in response to a question from a Russian political scientist who urged a tougher nuclear stance to address Russia’s “insolent” partners.
Internally, there have been calls within Russia for Putin to demonstrate a stronger posture, including detonating a nuclear bomb, as a response to Western actions and perceived provocations.
Resuming nuclear testing by Russia, the United States, or both would have significant global repercussions, particularly at a time of heightened tensions between the two nations.
Putin also announced that Russia was nearing completion of its new generation of Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missiles, capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads.
These statements come amidst ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Putin accusing the West of losing touch with reality over the situation. He suggested that Western leaders had forgotten the concepts of compromise and self-restraint, warning that the world would witness the consequences of such arrogance.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has led to severe consequences, including damage to relations with the West, significant casualties, and widespread devastation in parts of Ukraine. The situation remains highly volatile, with Ukraine continuing to resist Russian forces and insisting on the removal of all Russian soldiers from its territory. The conflict has escalated tensions between Russia and the West to levels not seen since the Cold War.
