This opinion is shared by many Russians in respect for their country.
2. They also think that the nuclear arsenal is vitually necessary to prevent a possible agression from the USA. The threat may be both of military or not military matter (e.g. using economical weight). That's as simple as that.
Yes. It has always been this way.
Someday mankind may outgrow such instincts. But I don't expect it to happen in my lifetime.
Which nation today doesn't have a nuclear deterrent today whether directly or by default. The only alternative is to improve on defences, I guess...And to respect others sentiments and feelings too.