[freeandfreezing]

The only way nuclear arms are a deterrent is if you’re committed to using them.

What makes you think the Ukrainians wouldn't use nuclear weapons if they had them?

The Russians would not have launched an attack if a possible response was a nuclear bomb landing on Moscow.

[BushCountry]

“What makes you think the Ukrainians wouldn’t use nuclear weapons if they had them?”

Again, World War III. Russia’s desire to control Ukraine could cause a misunderstanding (in your fictional world) and boom. It doesn’t matter who launches first.

Just like Iran and North Korea getting nukes, the odds of a series of nuclear launches increase drastically.