Using nuclear weapons won’t solve any of Putin’s problems
Under pressure in Ukraine, the Russian president’s threat is a deterrent.
By
Lawrence Freedman
Lawrence Freedman is emeritus professor of war studies at King's College London. His writing for the New Statesman includes in-depth analysis of the war in Ukraine and European history.
Latest articles
All Articles
Vladimir Putin has failed to learn Stalin’s lessons
The Russian president wants his country to be feared and respected, but the failures of his military are increasingly…
By
Russia is still underestimating Ukraine
The war in Ukraine has become one of attrition – it’s Vladimir Putin’s only alternative to acknowledging defeat.
By
The perils of autocracy
Poor policies, once adopted, are difficult to abandon, as the leaders of Russia and China are demonstrating.
By
Why the Russian military should be very worried
As Ukraine targets ammunition depots, Putin’s forces may be approaching a crisis point.
By
Can Ukraine win the war with Russia?
As Russia takes the city of Lysychansk, Ukraine needs to develop momentum with its better, Western-sourced weapons.
By
Paralysis in Moscow: why Putin persists with his strategy
The Russian president realises he must pick his fights carefully. Just as well, because the challenges keep coming.
By
Lawrence Freedman’s Diary: My ban from entering Russia and memories of Cold War encounters with the KGB
I was last on the Kremlin’s most recent list of people to be sanctioned. This suggested I was something…
By
History’s long shadow falls over Russia and Ukraine
Wars have rules, and those who ignore them are apt to achieve surprise, simply by being stupid.
By