Kremlin-linked sources cited by Bloomberg say Vladimir Putin is preparing to escalate the war after judging peace efforts to be effectively deadlocked, with Russia weighing more intense conventional ballistic-missile attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Some Russian officials reportedly see tactical nuclear weapons as a theoretical last-resort option if Moscow’s position worsens, but the report stresses there is no evidence that Russia is preparing a nuclear strike. Moscow increasingly casts Ukrainian long-range attacks as NATO-backed operations because Western states supply Kyiv with weapons and intelligence.

Bloomberg, citing Kremlin-linked sources, reported that Moscow may also be considering using nuclear weapons.

Fears that Putin will deploy 'tactical nuclear weapons' against Ukraine are growing as Russia becomes increasingly frustrated and diplomatic hopes crumble.