The Daily

Russia’s Mystery Missile

Aug 16, 2019
In this conversation with David E. Sanger, a National Security Correspondent for The New York Times, the podcast delves into a chilling explosion in northern Russia linked to a nuclear missile prototype. Sanger discusses how this incident reflects deepening U.S.-Russia military tensions and Putin's bold claims about advancing nuclear capabilities. The talk also covers the implications of unraveling nuclear treaties and the shift toward a high-tech arms race, shedding light on the urgent need for renewed arms control efforts in this turbulent geopolitical landscape.
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ANECDOTE

Mysterious Storm Warning

  • Moscow TV screens displayed a blue background with a star, instructing people to take cover from a strong wind.
  • Oddly, there was no actual storm, raising questions and concerns among viewers.
ANECDOTE

Radiation Surge and Iodine Rush

  • A radiation surge was detected near the White Sea, which increased after an iodine-buying rush.
  • The warning later vanished, fueling anxieties due to contradictory information.
ANECDOTE

Conflicting Russian Statements

  • Initial Russian reports mentioned a liquid-fueled missile accident, but those don't produce radiation.
  • Later, they admitted an "isotope power source" explosion, hinting at a radiological event without full disclosure.
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