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As the Russian military struggles to achieve its objectives in Ukraine, frustration has given way to desperate measures. Analysts claim that Putin's threats of nuclear war may initially have been designed as mere coercion against the West, aimed at dissuading support for Ukraine. However, following a notable change in Russia’s nuclear doctrine, the threat has taken on an alarming seriousness.
From its initial invasion in February 2022, Russia has issued warnings regarding the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons, particularly after Sweden and Finland joined NATO, reflecting the Kremlin's concern over NATO expansion. Yet, the absence of tangible action accompanying these threats led many observers to dismiss them as bluster.