Ukraine: The Latest Putin tests 'invincible' nuclear-powered missile & Serhii Plokhy on the new arms race
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Oct 27, 2025 
In this discussion, renowned historian Serhii Plokhy sheds light on nuclear history and modern implications as tensions escalate in the Russo-Ukrainian war. He explains the renewed global arms race and critiques the impact of nuclear disarmament on Ukraine's security. Plokhy shares chilling anecdotes of near misses during the Cold War and warns of the proliferation risks triggered by current conflicts. His insights emphasize the importance of today’s decisions for future global stability and the urgent need to reassess deterrence strategies.
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Missile Test As Political Signaling
- Putin's unveiling of a nuclear-powered cruise missile is classic Kremlin saber rattling during pressure.
- The test claimed a 14,000 km flight and was presented as unique and unlimited by Russian officials.
Post‑Soviet Arsenal And Non‑Proliferation
- After the Soviet collapse, Ukraine briefly possessed a third of the world's nuclear arsenal on its territory.
- The US and Russia pressured Ukraine to transfer warheads to Russia as a non-proliferation success at the time.
Ukraine Could Have Operated Weapons
- Serhii Plokhy says Ukrainian engineers could have learned to operate the weapons within months.
- He notes the real problem was maintaining them amid Ukraine's economic collapse in the 1990s.
