{
  "id": 5137836,
  "title": "Political Scientist Explains Why The Kremlin Has Resumed Nuclear Blackmail",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/political-scientist-explains-why-the-kremlin-has-resumed-nuclear",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-02T15:36:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "UATV English",
    "slug": "uatv-english",
    "url": "https://uatv.ua/en/political-scientist-explains-why-the-kremlin-has-resumed-nuclear-blackmail/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Russia has once again turned to the topic of using nuclear weapons, according to Dr. Ihor Petrenko, a political scientist. This resurgence is primarily tied to Russia's current situation on the frontlines, domestic issues, and an effort to psychologically pressure Ukraine and its allies. Petrenko explained that the Russian military's poor performance in Ukraine has led to Moscow attempting terror tactics, now employing aerial Shahed drones. The domestic problems in Russia, including economic stagnation and declining public welfare, also contribute to the Kremlin's need to project strength and reinforce its regime's heroism. The recent escalation of the war onto Russian soil, such as shelling and attacks on infrastructure, has a significant psychological impact. Additionally, the upcoming State Duma elections have been used to maintain a specific image for the population. Petrenko believes that Russia's nuclear rhetoric serves not only to bolster domestic support but also to influence Ukraine's Western partners. The Kremlin aims to discourage potential allies from actively supporting Ukraine or committing to any decisions through intimidation. Despite Russia's repeated use of nuclear rhetoric, Petrenko emphasizes that these threats should not be dismissed, as the Russian Federation indeed possesses nuclear weapons.",
  "summary": "The Kremlin's latest return to the topic of a possible use of nuclear weapons is primarily linked to Russia's situation at the front, its internal problems, and Moscow's desire to exert psychological pressure on Ukraine and its partners. This was emphasized on UATV channel by Doctor of Political Science Ihor Petrenko. \"The situation needs to be looked at comprehensively here. The main trigger…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}