Chinese academic Chu Zhaogen notes that while Russia tends to threaten the use of nuclear weapons, especially amid the current war in Ukraine, chances are that it is well aware that doing so would invite unwelcome and devastating consequences. This makes it unlikely that it will actually act on its rhetoric.
Politics
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine shows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ambition and is seen as part of his grand strategy for restoring the nation's past glory. However, Chinese academic Chu Zhaogen notes that since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Russia has missed opportunities for technological advancement and societal reform. Also, Putin’s inner circle seems to perpetuate his delusion of Russia’s situation and military capabilities. China has lessons to take from all of this.