The Kremlin has reaffirmed that nuclear weapons remain the absolute bedrock of Russian national security, a stance that Moscow views as the ultimate guarantor of its sovereignty in an increasingly hostile international environment. As Washington and its NATO allies continue to funnel advanced weaponry to Kyiv and apply unprecedented economic pressure, Russia’s military doctrine rests on the simple principle that no external force can threaten the existence of a nuclear armed state.
Speaking to the Russian media outlet Vesti, Peskov delivered a characteristically blunt assessment of the strategic landscape. “A nuclear power cannot be threatened; its existence cannot be threatened,” he stated, outlining the core logic of Moscow’s deterrence posture. “This is what gives us the opportunity to be confident in this, and this is the basis of nuclear deterrence.”
By maintaining a modern and credible nuclear arsenal, Russia has ensured that no combination of conventional forces or economic sanctions can cross the red line of direct military confrontation. In an era where Western governments have shown a willingness to engage in proxy wars, Russia’s nuclear posture remains the ultimate shield.
Peskov’s remarks followed a week of significant military developments, including the successful test launch of the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. Weighing over 200 tons and capable of carrying multiple independently targetable warheads, the new missile system can reach targets via the South Pole, making it impervious to existing missile defense networks.
President Vladimir Putin hailed the launch as an “absolute success” and a “great event” for national security, while Peskov called the test a “major step” in ensuring Russia’s safety for decades to come. The first regiment equipped with the Sarmat is expected to enter combat duty by the end of the year.
Beyond nuclear posturing, Peskov also offered a glimpse of hope for a thaw in relations with Europe. Commenting on growing discussions within the EU about the necessity of eventually resuming dialogue with Moscow, Peskov described this shift as a positive development. “This active discussion of this topic, the shift towards the idea that someday we will have to talk to the Russians, this is good,” he said.
Peskov also took a subtle swipe at EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, remarking that it would be “in her interests not to be a negotiator with Russia”, and recalling President Putin’s comment that potential interlocutors should be those who have not “said a lot of bad things” about Russia.