US Deploys Nuclear Bombs to UK Amid Rising Russia-Ukraine Tensions

The United States has reportedly deployed nuclear weapons on British soil for the first time since 2008 amid escalating tensions over the war in Ukraine and as President Donald Trump issues a 50-day ultimatum to Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities. Several advanced B61-12 thermonuclear gravity bombs were transferred to RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, England, where a newly constructed secure storage facility supports their presence. These low-yield tactical nuclear bombs, compatible with F-35A Lightning II fighter jets operated by the 493rd and 495th Fighter Squadrons based at Lakenheath, represent a significant shift in NATO's nuclear posture in Europe amid deteriorating relations with Russia. The deployment marks the return of a US nuclear deterrent to the UK after over a decade, following the removal of approximately 110 warheads in 2008 which ended a 54-year presence dating back to the Cold War. Neither the US Department of Defense nor the UK Ministry of Defence have publicly confirmed the deployment, consistent with standard policy on nuclear weapons locations. This move coincides with increased cooperation between the UK and France on nuclear deterrence and reflects growing concerns about Russian aggression in Europe.