Isn’t this the sort of extremism we get from Lindsey Graham?
Take a moment and ask your friendly local AI about nuclear warhead counts and average yields.
AI Grok says:
Vladimir Solovyov, a prominent Russian state TV host and Kremlin propagandist, frequently makes nuclear war threats to advance Russia’s geopolitical narrative and intimidate perceived adversaries. Here are the key reasons behind his rhetoric, based on recent patterns and context:
Propaganda and Fear-Mongering: Solovyov’s threats, such as warning of a “radioactive tsunami” via Poseidon torpedoes, serve to project Russian strength and deter Western support for Ukraine. By invoking nuclear scenarios, he amplifies the Kremlin’s narrative of Russia as a formidable power, aiming to intimidate nations like the US, UK, and Poland into reducing military aid to Ukraine or avoiding escalation.
Response to Geopolitical Tensions: His threats often coincide with specific events, like US sanctions, NATO expansion, or Ukrainian military successes (e.g., drone strikes on Russian bases). For instance, Solovyov’s July 2025 threats targeting the US followed leaked audio of Trump claiming he threatened to bomb Moscow, suggesting a retaliatory narrative to assert Russia’s defiance.
Domestic Audience Control: Solovyov’s rhetoric also targets Russian viewers, framing the Ukraine conflict and Western opposition as existential threats. By portraying the West as “Satanists” or aggressors, he rallies domestic support for Putin’s policies and the ongoing war, casting it as a “holy war” to justify military spending and aggression.
Kremlin’s Strategic Messaging: As a sanctioned Kremlin mouthpiece, Solovyov’s role is to echo and amplify official narratives. His threats, like those about wiping out Ukraine or Poland with tactical nukes, align with Russia’s broader strategy to signal readiness for extreme measures, even if analysts argue actual nuclear use is unlikely due to strategic costs.
Reaction to Perceived Humiliation: Solovyov’s outbursts often follow events that challenge Russia’s image, such as Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian strategic sites or Trump’s public criticism of Putin. His June 2025 call for nuclear strikes on Ukraine came after audacious Ukrainian drone operations, reflecting a need to reassert dominance.
“Mr. President, I’m not saying we wouldn’t get our hair mussed, but I do say no more than 10 to 20 million killed, tops! Uh, depending on the breaks.”
Lindsay’s idea.