A Ukrainian military commander has issued a stark warning that Russia is preparing to deploy tactical nuclear weapons as President Vladimir Putin seeks to escalate the war. The alert came from Roman Kostenko, who insists Ukraine must bolster its readiness for weapons of mass destruction.
Nuclear Threat Warning
Kostenko told Ukrainian news outlet Channel 24 that he believes Russia will turn to nuclear weapons if it senses defeat in the conflict. He stated that Russia could launch tactical nuclear weapons with a yield ranging from several to dozens of kilotons. Potential targets include military bases, troop concentrations, infrastructure, decision-making centres, and large cities.
The military leader emphasised the need for heightened preparedness, noting that he has submitted legislation to separate the strategy for biological, chemical, and nuclear security into a distinct area. He said: "This will be a separate strategy in our law on national security."
Recent Ukrainian Offensive
This warning follows President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's announcement of "a new stage in the use of Ukrainian weapons to limit the potential of Russia's war." The Ukraine Security Service (SBU) confirmed it had struck Transneft's oil pumping and distribution facility in the city of Perm, a strategically important hub for oil transportation. Early reports indicate that almost all oil storage tanks at the site are on fire.
Ukraine's recent offensive has provoked angry responses from the Russian government. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the strikes on oil facilities as "terrorist attacks." Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry announced that military cadets and a column of equipment would not participate in this year's Victory Day parade commemorating the end of World War 2 "due to the current operational situation."
