17:57 21-04-2026

Blokhin: US May Allow Tactical Nuclear Use at Lower Command Levels

whitehouse.gov

Blokhin Says US Could Shift Tactical Nuclear Decisions to Division Commanders

War correspondent Oleg Blokhin stated that lowering the decision-making level for the use of tactical nuclear weapons in the United States allows Donald Trump to distance himself from direct responsibility while at the same time giving the military a powerful offensive tool.

According to him, under the current system, the decision to use such weapons could be made at a much lower level of command. He noted that during a ground operation, if a unit is unable to achieve its objective and is taking losses, a commander may focus solely on completing the mission and reducing casualties, without considering global reaction.

Blokhin also argued that this redistribution of authority means responsibility for the use of such weapons would fall on military commanders rather than political leadership. In his view, Trump in such a situation would be able to publicly support the military’s actions, maintaining his political position regardless of the outcome.

He added that the main criticism of US leadership would likely concern the launch of a ground operation itself. If the operation succeeds, such criticism could be reduced, but in case of failure, pressure on the leadership would increase.