Inside Russia’s Nuclear Readiness: An Ex-Officer’s Inside Account

Russian Nuclear Alert During the Ukraine War

On February 24, 2022, the day Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a secret nuclear weapons base went on high combat alert. Anton, a former Russian nuclear forces officer, stated that this marked a significant escalation.

Before the invasion, the military conducted only exercises. Anton revealed that on the day the war began, the nuclear weapons were fully prepared for potential use. He shared that they were ready to launch forces at sea and in the air, implying readiness for a nuclear strike.

Meeting Anton in a secure location outside Russia, the BBC concealed his identity for safety reasons. He confirmed his position in a highly classified nuclear weapons facility by showing documents that verified his role and rank.

Three days after the invasion, Vladimir Putin ordered the nuclear deterrent forces into a “special mode of combat service.” Anton explained that this alert status began on the first day of the conflict, noting that their unit was confined to the base. With only state television for information, he followed orders without fully grasping their implications. He was tasked with protecting nuclear weapons rather than participating directly in the conflict.

After two to three weeks, the combat alert was lifted. Anton highlighted the secretive operations within Russia’s nuclear forces, remarking on the strict selection process for personnel. These soldiers are career professionals, not conscripts, and undergo continuous screenings, including lie detector tests.

Every soldier is forbidden from bringing phones into the base to maintain security. Visits from family require a request submitted months in advance.

Anton was part of the security unit responsible for guarding nuclear arms, maintaining a quick reaction time. Russia possesses about 4,380 nuclear warheads, with around 1,700 being operational. Concerns have arisen about the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons, which carry a risk of escalation in the ongoing conflict.

Recently, Putin amended Russia’s nuclear doctrine, allowing for strikes in response to large-scale conventional attacks from non-nuclear states, especially if supported by nuclear states.

This update suggests Russia aims to prevent defeat on the battlefield. However, doubts persist regarding the functionality of its nuclear arsenal, with some Western experts claiming many weapons are outdated. Anton countered these views, stating that while there may be older systems, the country maintains a substantial, operational nuclear capacity.

Shortly after the war began, Anton received what he labeled a “criminal order” to deliver propaganda to his troops, labeling Ukrainian civilians as combatants. He deemed this a war crime and refused to comply, leading to disciplinary actions against him.

Facing potential deployment to the front lines, Anton signed a declaration refusing to participate in the war. He sought refuge abroad with the help of a volunteer organization aiding deserters. He believed his transfer to a regular assault brigade allowed him to escape undetected.

Anton emphasizes that many Russian soldiers oppose the war. The organization helping deserters reported an increase to 350 requests for assistance each month. The risks for those fleeing are rising, with reports of deaths and forced returns.

Despite leaving Russia, Anton remains cautious, knowing that security services still search for him. He has ceased communication with contacts at the nuclear base to avoid endangering them. He understands the grave risks he faces in helping others escape, recognizing that his actions could provoke violent retaliation from authorities.