Dmitriy Ustinov quotes

Dmitriy Ustinov was a Soviet military leader and politician who served as Minister of Defence of the Soviet Union. Renowned for his organizational skills and significant influence on Soviet military-industrial development, he played a key role during the Cold War. He is remembered for shaping the Soviet defense strategy and overseeing major military modernization programs. Here are 4 of his quotes:

Could anyone in his right mind speak seriously of any limited nuclear war? It should be quite clear that the aggressor's actions will instantly and inevitably trigger a devastating counterstroke by the other side. None but completely irresponsible people could maintain that a nuclear war may be made to follow rules adopted beforehand, with nuclear missiles exploding in a "gentlemanly manner" over strictly designated targets and sparing the population.

Dmitriy Ustinov

Frankly, we doubt the veracity and seriousness of the United States in regard to achieving results that would be acceptable to both sides in Geneva.

Dmitriy Ustinov

The aggressor too should know that the preemptive use of nuclear weapons would not insure victory. With modern detection systems and the combat readiness of the Soviet Union's strategic nuclear forces, the United States would not be able to deal a crippling blow to the socialist countries. The aggressor will not be able to evade an all-crushing retaliatory strike.

Dmitriy Ustinov