Nuclear weapons in Belarus is the start of Putin's election campaign 

The news of tactical nuclear weapons being placed in Belarus marks the beginning of Putin's election campaign. Nuclear weapons remain the only unscathed stronghold, as the sacred symbols of Russian power such as the army, economic greatness, and international recognition have been destroyed by the so-called "special military operation."

Until March 17, 2024, when the strict regime of the federation will "elect" its supreme supervisor, the information field will be generously enriched with nuclear rhetoric.

Over the next 12 months, Putin will have to demonstrate the effectiveness of his rule and his ability to withstand the “sinister” NATO. The easiest way to achieve this is through nuclear intimidation.

The Russian military doctrine spells out the logic of blackmail. The nuclear arsenal, primarily tactical, is the main trump card that can be used against the high-tech weapons of the West. Psychological influence on the enemy is deemed key, specifically a demonstration of determination to increase the degree of escalation until hypothetical aggression is stopped and peace is concluded "on terms satisfactory to Russia."

Until March 17, 2024, when the strict regime of the federation will "elect" its supreme supervisor, the information field will be generously enriched with nuclear rhetoric.Over the next 12 months, Putin will have to demonstrate the effectiveness of his rule and his ability to withstand the “sinister” NATO. The easiest way to achieve this is through nuclear intimidation

The direct use of weapons to achieve military goals is becoming less common, as conflicts require overcoming the entire "ladder of deterrence."

The upcoming year poses significant challenges for Russians as budget revenues are depleted, and the state will need to shift towards a wartime economy to support the war in Ukraine. The authorities will need to carefully and actively project an image of strength, actually hiding their bare ass. 

Experts at the Institute for the Study of War assess Putin's actions as an "information operation designed to revive the aura of the powerful Soviet military industry." For instance, they point out that he made a sudden promise that the country would produce over 1,500 tanks by the end of 2023, despite its total impossibility.

Putin's statement serves as the first step in executing the Kremlin's mobilization strategy, which involves two critical assets for the Russian nation: its nuclear weapons and its lousy leader

ISW, along with many Western media outlets, draw conclusions that are not entirely accurate regarding where Putin aims to deliver his messages. They believe that the Kremlin is attempting to persuade the West to be less concerned about Ukraine by doing so.

However, Putin's statement serves as the first step in executing the Kremlin's mobilization strategy, which involves two critical assets for the Russian nation: its nuclear weapons and its lousy leader

Regarding the upcoming presidential elections in Mordor, there's a joke about tram races that comes to mind: the first tram to depart is typically the first one to reach the finish line.

If events unfold as planned, elections won't even be necessary.

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About the author.  Orest Sokhar, journalist, chief editor of Obozrevatel

The editors do not always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.