Russia's 'Doomsday weapon' is a lie as expert rubbishes Kremlin's claim of WW3 test

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently claimed that Moscow had successfully tested its Poseidon nuclear-powered torpedo, calling it an “unmatched strategic weapon.” However, independent experts and Western analysts have dismissed the claim as a propaganda tactic meant to distract from Russia’s mounting losses in Ukraine and to boost domestic morale.

The Poseidon, also known as Status-6, is a nuclear-armed underwater drone first revealed in 2018. Designed to deliver a 100-megaton warhead capable of causing radioactive tsunamis, it has long been surrounded by secrecy, technical doubts, and safety concerns particularly after the 2019 Losharik submersible explosion that killed 14 Russian sailors. Many defense analysts question whether the torpedo’s propulsion system or stealth technology even works as claimed.

Putin’s October 29 announcement came amid reports of over 1.1 million Russian casualties since the war began, with Moscow’s autumn offensive achieving little progress around Myrnohrad and Pokrovsk. Despite Russia’s declaration that 5,500 Ukrainian soldiers were encircled, satellite imagery and Ukrainian sources showed supply lines still intact through southern routes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged fierce battles, noting that 170,000 Russian troops were concentrated near Pokrovsk.

Humanitarian leader Yuriy Boyechko, CEO of Hope For Ukraine, told Express.co.uk:

“Putin’s Poseidon announcement is widely viewed as a propaganda flex aimed at global deterrence and domestic reassurance following new Western sanctions.”

He added that Moscow’s exaggerated claims both about new weapons and battlefield victories reflect an information warfare strategy designed to manipulate public perception and project strength despite military setbacks.

Meanwhile, Russian State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin echoed the nuclear threat, warning that the West should “beg for mercy” to prevent Russia from using Poseidon or other “superweapons.” These aggressive statements have deepened global concern over Russia’s nuclear rhetoric.

In Washington, President Donald Trump criticized Putin’s actions during an October 27 interview, saying:

“Putin should end the Ukraine war, not test missiles.”

Analysts note that Trump’s comments, coupled with his cautious stance on additional U.S. weapons for Kyiv, suggest he favors negotiation over escalation.

Boyechko concluded that the Kremlin’s recent moves represent “a blend of military deception and psychological warfare,” aimed at maintaining internal loyalty amid heavy sanctions and economic decline.

“It’s not supremacy it’s smoke and mirrors,” he said.