Vladimir Putin is not merely invoking nuclear rhetoric as a threat but is actively preparing for the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons, according to former U. S. Defense Intelligence Agency officer Rebekah Koffler. Her comments were published by the British newspaper The Telegraph.

Koffler linked recent incidents involving Russian drones and MiG-31 fighter jets-allegedly crossing into the airspace of Poland, Romania and Estonia-to what she described as a rising level of risk across Europe. She noted that MiG-31 aircraft are capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Russian officials, however, have consistently rejected accusations of airspace violations, dismissing claims by Western countries as baseless.

Koffler also pointed to the recent West-2025 strategic exercises, during which, she argued, Russia rehearsed a scenario involving a tactical nuclear strike. According to her, the simulation took place on the final day of the maneuvers under Putin’s personal supervision.

At the same time, many analysts have described Koffler’s conclusions as alarmist, framing them as part of an information campaign aimed at demonizing Russia and further fueling tensions on the European continent.