⚡ Introduction: The Return of Nuclear Hype
Over tea and cakes with veterans of the Ukraine war, President Vladimir Putin declared that Russia had successfully tested two new nuclear weapons — the Poseidon underwater drone and the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile.
He boasted that “there is nothing like this,” calling them “unmatched in the world.”
But behind the dramatic claims, experts are asking: are these real breakthroughs, or just strategic bluffs designed to impress global rivals?
💣 What Are the Poseidon and Burevestnik?
The Poseidon is a nuclear-powered torpedo-like drone said to travel at 200 km/h (120 mph) with an unpredictable route — allegedly making it impossible to intercept.
The Burevestnik, meanwhile, is a nuclear-propelled missile with “unlimited range,” capable of flying for hours or even days.
While both weapons were first revealed in 2018 as part of Putin’s “invincible” arsenal, their recent spotlight comes a UNmid growing international tensions and Russia’s struggles in Ukraine.
🧩 Experts Question the Reality Behind the Claims
Military analysts argue these so-called “super weapons” may be more about propaganda than performance.
“They are Armageddon weapons — too powerful to use unless you’re ready to destroy the world,” said Russia expert Mark Galeotti.
In 2019, five Russian engineers died in a suspected Burevestnik test accident, and Western think tanks have long questioned the viability of its nuclear propulsion system.
🌍 The Political Timing: Putin Seeking Leverage
Putin’s latest announcements came just after the US canceled a planned summit between Presidents Trump and Putin — and slapped sanctions on major Russian oil firms.
Analysts believe Moscow’s display of nuclear might could be an attempt to regain political leverage and remind Washington of Russia’s destructive capabilities.
“It’s less about military readiness and more about sending a message,” said one defense analyst.
⚔️ A Reflection of Battlefield Struggles
Three years into the Ukraine conflict, Russia’s conventional forces have seen limited progress. Some experts argue that the dramatic weapons reveal reflects Moscow’s frustration and its desire to project strength.
David Heathcote of McKenzie Intelligence Services said:
“When Russia struggles militarily, it often reacts with exaggerated nuclear rhetoric.”
🔥 The Global Ripple: U.S. Considers Nuclear Tests
Putin’s display quickly provoked a response from Washington. President Trump announced that the U.S. may resume nuclear weapons testing after more than three decades, citing the need to “keep pace” with Russia and China.
The Kremlin was quick to downplay any escalation, insisting its own tests “cannot be interpreted as nuclear.”
Still, the move raises fears of a renewed global arms race, something the world has not seen since the Cold War.
💭 Conclusion: Power or Posturing?
As the Ukraine war drags on and international diplomacy falters, Putin’s grandiose weapon tests might be less about readiness and more about psychological warfare — a reminder to the world that Russia still wants to be feared.