There is a common misconception that the leaders of nuclear states have a ‘red button’ that can unleash Armageddon. As Vladimir Putin continues to hint at the use of non-strategic (‘tactical’) nuclear weapons in Ukraine, there is some comfort in the knowledge that it is not so easy.
Ironically, launching the kind of strategic nuclear missiles whose use would likely spiral into global destruction is somewhat easier than deploying the smaller weapons which – however vastly unlikely – could conceivably be used in Ukraine.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 3 months of digital access, absolutely free
Subscribe to The Spectator Australia today to get the next 3 months of unlimited website and app access for free.
- Full access to spectator.com.au and spectator.co.uk
- The Spectator Australia app, on Apple and Android
- Podcasts and newsletters, including Morning Double Shot
- Our archive, going back to 1828
Or
Comments
Get 3 months of digital access, absolutely free
Join the conversation with other Spectator Australia readers. Subscribe to leave a comment.
CLAIM OFFER 3 months freeAlready a subscriber? Log in