In a shocking revelation, a new report has unveiled the behind-the-scenes preparations made by the Biden administration in anticipation of Russia's potential use of tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine. According to the New York Times, the CIA warned President Biden in 2022 that there was a 50% or higher chance of Russia resorting to its nuclear arsenal if its forces were severely weakened and the illegally annexed territory of Crimea was under threat.

These alarming reports prompted President Biden to deliver his now-famous "Armageddon" speech during a fundraiser in New York City on October 6, 2022. He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, comparing it to the Cuban Missile Crisis faced by President Kennedy. Biden echoed the intelligence officials' warning that Russian President Vladimir Putin should not be taken lightly if he ever considered a nuclear option.

The escalation of concerns followed Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Initially, US intelligence officials declared that there was no evidence to suggest Russia intended to use weapons of mass destruction. However, as Ukraine began pushing back the Russian advance, the CIA intercepted increasing chatter among Russian forces discussing the possibility of deploying smaller-scale "tactical" nuclear weapons.

The situation created what former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley referred to as "the nuclear paradox" for the United States. Despite providing $74 billion in aid to Ukraine to counter the Kremlin's aggression, the success of the Ukrainian resistance increased the likelihood of Putin resorting to a nuclear threat.

According to senior Biden administration officials, the October 2022 warnings prompted the administration to rigorously prepare for the eventuality of a nuclear strike by Russia. The National Security Council convened to discuss reaction strategies, deterrence measures, and preemptive actions. Officials admitted that such preparations were unexpected when they assumed their roles, reminiscent of Cold War-era talks.

Concerns of a potential nuclear strike were further heightened when Kremlin officials claimed that Kyiv could utilize a "dirty bomb" against Russia. These allegations raised fears that they were part of a campaign to justify Russia's possible use of a nuclear attack.

While the recent battlefield developments indicate that Russia currently has the upper hand, US intelligence no longer believes there is an imminent risk of a nuclear strike. However, Putin has not ruled out the use of Russia's extensive nuclear arsenal, which includes mobile ballistic missiles, nuclear missile submarines, and long-range bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons. In a recent address to parliament, Putin warned Western nations that his weapons could hit targets in the West if they directly interfere in the conflict.

The rejection of an idea proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron, suggesting European NATO members send ground troops to Ukraine, further adds to the tensions. The idea was dismissed by the United States, Britain, Germany, and other nations.

As the situation in Ukraine continues to unfold, the Biden administration remains on high alert, prepared to address any further threats and escalate efforts to ensure regional stability.