[Petrosius]

It would have justified thermonuclear attack up to and including extermination of major cities.

It might trigger such an attack--although I doubt it--but would not justify it. Anyone who thinks so is insane.

[libertarian66]

Justify in the sense of it would be according to Russian military doctrine. Ethically, that’s more a personal call. Objectively not as Russia is as guilty or more than the West/Ukraine in starting this war.