Most Russians Oppose Using Nuclear Weapons in Ukraine

A solid majority (69%) say that it would never be justified for Moscow to use a tactical nuclear weapon in its current military operation against Kyiv.

Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin made another veiled threat to use a nuclear weapon in Russia’s conflict against Ukraine. While these comments have largely been viewed as additional saber-rattling, Western leaders are concerned that Moscow’s military setbacks in Ukraine could trigger a dangerous nuclear escalation. Despite the Russian public’s tacit or outright support for their country’s military action in Ukraine, most Russians believe that it is never justified to use tactical nuclear weapons in the conflict with Kyiv.

Key Findings

• Three-quarters of the Russian public strongly (42%) or somewhat (32%) support their country’s special military operation in Ukraine.
• As in March, eight in 10 (82%) say that the possibility of a nuclear weapons exchange between the United States and Russia is a critical threat, well ahead of threats from a global economic downturn (45% critical) and the NATO alliance (44%).
• A solid majority (69%) say that it would never be justified for Russia to use a tactical nuclear weapon in its current military operation in Ukraine.
• A quarter (23%) say it would only be justified if the other side uses nuclear weapons first.
• Just 3 percent say it would be justified.