Since February 2022, Russia has repeatedly invoked its nuclear arsenal to deter Western intervention in Ukraine, limit outside support for Kyiv, and compel Ukraine to capitulate. The author assesses the content and impact of this signaling, assesses the present and future implications for U.S. and Russian nuclear strategy and other nuclear dynamics, and makes recommendations for strengthening U.S. and allied deterrence and reducing nuclear risks.
This publication is part of the RAND research report series. Research reports present research findings and objective analysis that address the challenges facing the public and private sectors. All RAND research reports undergo rigorous peer review to ensure high standards for research quality and objectivity.
This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.
RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND’s publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.
