Russia could potentially use tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine as a last resort if peace talks with Kyiv remain stalled, Bloomberg reported on Thursday, citing Russian officials.
Tactical nuclear weapons are generally designed for battlefield use against specific targets and have a shorter range than strategic nuclear weapons. However, despite their limited battlefield role, they can cause extensive destruction and radioactive fallout across a wide area.
According to Bloomberg, Russian officials have concluded that negotiations with Ukraine have reached an impasse and that military action may be considered instead of diplomatic efforts to bring the war to an end.
The report said China and India have urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to refrain from using nuclear weapons. China has reportedly expressed particular concern, warning Moscow not even to consider deploying nuclear weapons.
Meanwhile, Russia has also decided to intensify missile strikes against key Ukrainian infrastructure and cities, according to the report.
The claims come amid continued uncertainty over efforts to resolve the war in Ukraine and growing international concern over the possibility of further escalation.
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