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The Atlantic·5 min read·hard

Russia and America Are Rediscovering the Limits of Nuclear Weapons

T
Tom Nichols
Russia and America Are Rediscovering the Limits of Nuclear Weapons
AI Summary

This analysis argues that nuclear weapons have become ineffective tools for achieving victory in regional conflicts, as evidenced by recent wars involving the U.S. and Russia. The author suggests that despite massive modernization spending, nuclear deterrence does not translate into success in conventional military engagements.

Vlad Karkov / SOPA Images / Getty July 13, 2026, 7 AM ET Share Save H enry Kissinger often said that nuclear arms are “weapons in search of a doctrine.” After the Cold War, some strategists have tried to figure out what, exactly, these weapons could buy them beyond deterrence. The answer, as it turns out, is: nothing.

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