These country’s offer some of the best chances of survival
An escalation in nuclear threats from Russia has raised concerns that tensions with the West could trigger a catastrophic global war.
Vladimir Putin this week said he had lowered the bar for carrying out a nuclear strike.
Russia’s official nuclear doctrine, which previously said the country could only use nuclear weapons in response to a nuclear attack, now says the country can use such weapons in response to conventional strikes.
It also now states, in Putin’s words, that Russia is ‘entitled to use our weapons’ against countries which allow their weapons to be used against Russian forces.
Analysts say the move is an open threat to the US and UK, who recently allowed Ukraine to fire longer-range Western-supplied missiles into Russia, although they disagree over how likely Putin is to follow through.
Open conflict between the powers would likely drag in allies from across the globe – the so-called ‘World War 3’ scenario – but some parts of the world are likely to avoid the brunt.
Antarctica
There is plenty of room for people to take refuge (Picture: Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
The continent sits at the most southerly point of the planet making it one of the safest places to survive a nuclear war.
There is an enormous geographic distance between Antarctica and countries with nuclear warheads.
With more than 14 million square kilometres, there is plenty of room for people to take refuge.
But some may find the icy and freezing climate unforgiving.
Iceland
Iceland is one of the most peaceful countries in the world(Picture: Getty Images)
Iceland has earned a reputation as one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
The country has consistently topped the Global Peace Index, having never taken part in a full-scale war or invasion.
Iceland’s government has signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine, although its support is limited to financing and a small amount of transportation.
A relatively remote island geographically, it would avoid the effects of conventional war in Europe – although the fallout of widespread nuclear strikes on the mainland would likely reach its shores in small amounts.
New Zealand
The country’s mountainous terrain makes it easier for citizens to be protected (Picture: Getty Images)
New Zealand ranks second in the Global Peace Index and has taken a neutral stance on most conflicts.
The country also has a mountainous terrain making it easier for citizens to be protected.
The Kiwi government has provided financial support to Ukraine’s military and assisted in action against Russia in the International Court of Justice.
However it is extremely unlikely to face any attacks in the event of a Western conflict with Russia.
Switzerland
Switzerland is well protected by its terrain (Picture: Shutterstock/pkul)
This country is the most readily associated with political neutrality, even during World War Two.
It is well protected by its terrain, landlocked geography and various nuclear shelters.
Switzerland is one of the few European countries not to have provided assistance to Ukraine, and has even been accused of favouring Russia through its …read more
Source:: Metro