US intelligence assesses nuclear threats from Russia
Photo: The Kremlin fears a Ukrainian nuclear bomb (Getty Images)
The Biden administration's decision to allow Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory with US-made ATACMS missiles has sparked significant debate and concern. However, according to US intelligence assessments, the risk of nuclear escalation remains low, Reuters reports.
Nevertheless, Russia is likely to intensify hybrid warfare methods, such as sabotage and cyberattacks, to pressure the West.
US intelligence assesses the likelihood of nuclear escalation as low. Despite rhetoric from Russian President Vladimir Putin and changes in Russia's nuclear doctrine, Moscow is unlikely to use nuclear weapons due to the absence of a clear military advantage.
The nuclear option is seen as a last resort, with other methods of influence, including sabotage and attacks on critical infrastructure, expected to precede it.
Russia is likely to increase sabotage operations in Europe and cyberattacks to intimidate countries supporting Ukraine. Possible actions through a network of Russian agents are mentioned.
US officials are concerned about potential attacks on US military bases or other strategic sites.
The presence of North Korean forces provided to Russia has heightened the need to allow Ukraine to carry out long-range strikes. This signals to Washington that Russia is mobilizing additional resources, requiring a stronger response.
Initially, the Biden administration was concerned about escalation but later softened its position. Some officials believe the decision to expand the use of ATACMS was made too late.
Earlier, The Times reported that Ukraine could develop a nuclear bomb within months. This could happen if newly elected President Donald Trump halts military aid to Ukraine.
