Yuriy Knutov, a Russian security‑policy analyst, told MK.ru that American technology companies are developing techniques to cripple nuclear arsenals using cyberattacks and artificial intelligence.
Knutov made his remarks in the context of comments by Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, who at a press briefing said that Russia and other countries are working on weapons capable of destruction comparable to nuclear arms but without radioactive fallout. Reacting to Peskov’s statements, Knutov described the kinds of capabilities he believes are being pursued.
According to Knutov, these are systems that can alter the Earth’s environment or climate—he mentioned weapons that could trigger earthquakes or tornadoes—and he asserted that China, Russia and the United States are all engaged in such research. He also cited Alex Karp, the chief executive of Palantir, who has said that artificial intelligence is making nuclear weapons less central.
Knutov stated specifically: “I think they are working on methods by which artificial intelligence can be turned against nuclear weapons, for example by using hacker attacks to block missile launchers, while being able to carry out attacks with nuclear or conventional means.”
Knutov further claimed that the United States has used a new‑generation device, which he called an “interferer” or “confuser,” during operations related to Venezuela; he said the device’s exact function remains unknown. He characterized this purported weapon as manipulating gravity.
The reporting is based on Knutov’s comments to MK.ru; the article does not provide independent verification of the asserted technologies or of any operational use.
Why it matters
Knutov’s claims tie together developments in artificial intelligence, cyber operations and non‑conventional weapons. If such capabilities existed or were feasible, they would raise significant issues for strategic stability and arms‑control frameworks. At the same time, the statements presented are strong allegations that require confirmation from independent sources.
Note
The opinions and claims quoted from Knutov are not equivalent to official state announcements, and the article does not include evidence proving the functionality or deployment of the specific technologies mentioned.
