Geopolitics Decanted by Silverado cover image

Geopolitics Decanted by Silverado

How the US Planned to Respond to Russia Using a Nuke in Ukraine

Apr 8, 2024
Cybersecurity expert Dmitri Alperovitch and NYT writer Bill Hennigan discuss US fears of Russia using nuke in Ukraine, proposed limits on presidential nuclear strike power, and risks of Russia placing nuke in space. They delve into responses to potential Russian nuclear threats, diplomatic strategies, and global reactions to the crisis, emphasizing the need for legislative safeguards against unchecked nuclear weapon use.
44:16

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • US preparedness for potential Russian nuclear threat in Ukraine discussed intensively.
  • Tactical nuclear weapons used to signal intent and coerce rather than secure military advantage.

Deep dives

The Russian Threat and US Response

The podcast delves into the heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, discussing the dramatic events surrounding the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia. The US national security establishment was on high alert due to intelligence suggesting Russia's risk of using nuclear weapons against Ukrainian forces. Amid fears of a nuclear retaliation, the US government took swift action, prepositioning supplies and establishing communication with Russian officials to prevent a nuclear catastrophe. The episode emphasizes the grave risks of nuclear escalation, marking a critical moment akin to the Cuban Missile Crisis.

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