Russian President Vladimir Putin has put his country's nuclear forces on heightened alert, citing "aggressive statements" by NATO leaders on Ukraine. While some analysts caution that Putin would be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his aims, others say the chilling warning does not necessarily indicate his intention to press the nuclear button.
Russia, home to the world’s largest stockpile of nuclear warheads, is not shy about using them – such appears to be the message coming from the Kremlin as it grapples with mounting condemnation of its war in Ukraine and unexpectedly stiff resistance on the ground.
