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.
Russia' Topel M missile is specifically designed to attack the US as a preemptive strike weapon.
Nations have contradicting interests, and nuclear arsenal is a good trump in the political game. Moreover, Russia has no alternative trumps after the Catastrophe of 1991 when all Russian public institutions (economy, public services, military, educatuion, culture, etc.) practically collapsed and only nukes left to keep independence.