CroatiaA Russian State Duma deputy, Alexey Zhuravlev, openly called for Moscow to consider using tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine to force Kyiv into surrender, stating that such discussions should not exist and that if necessary, they should be used. However, this statement does not represent official Kremlin policy nor evidence of preparation for a nuclear strike. The decision to use nuclear weapons formally lies with President Vladimir Putin. Zhuravlev has previously advocated for all means to achieve victory but has not called for immediate bombing of Kyiv. Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow in late August 2026, reportedly seeking to dissuade Putin from escalating the conflict and encouraging return to peace talks. Russia subsequently tested a nuclear-capable missile capable of reaching the United States, though the weapon’s name was not disclosed. Bloomberg reports there are currently no signs that Putin is preparing to use nuclear weapons, and China and other Russian allies strongly oppose such a move.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the call for tactical nuclear weapons as a provocative stance by a nationalist politician, emphasizing the potential escalation and international backlash. It highlights the opposition from Russian allies like China and mentions U.S. efforts to de-escalate, which aligns with a pro
