A former Russian nuclear forces officer has shared alarming details about his role guarding nuclear weapons at a top-secret facility during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Speaking under the pseudonym Anton for safety reasons, he revealed that when the war began in February 2022, his unit was placed on full combat alert, ready to launch nuclear strikes. He described the intense secrecy and strict control at the facility, where soldiers were not allowed to bring phones or have visitors without prior approval from the FSB security service.
Anton explained that the nuclear forces, consisting of professional soldiers, were constantly training for rapid responses, with a reaction time of just two minutes in case of an emergency. He also highlighted the terrifying state of readiness of Russia’s nuclear arsenal, which includes thousands of warheads and constant combat patrols on land, sea, and air.
However, Anton’s defection occurred after he was ordered to deliver lectures to his troops, promoting the idea that Ukrainian civilians were combatants and should be destroyed. He rejected the order, deeming it a war crime, and refused to spread such propaganda. As a result, he was transferred to an assault brigade, where he would have been sent to the front lines as part of the “first wave” of troops. Fearing for his life, Anton fled Russia with the help of a deserter’s organization, despite the risks, as the authorities continue to search for him.
The ex-officer now speaks out to shed light on the growing number of Russian soldiers who are against the war, revealing that his desertion is part of a broader movement. The volunteer organization aiding deserters reports that more than 350 soldiers seek help each month, but the consequences of fleeing remain severe, with some deserters even being killed or forcibly returned to Russia. Anton remains in hiding, aware of the ever-present danger to himself and his loved ones.