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The United States has informed its NATO allies, China, and India about the possibility of Russia deploying a nuclear weapon into space this year.

According to the New York Times, this revelation comes from US intelligence assessments, which also raised the prospect of Russia sending a “dummy” warhead, potentially leaving questions about its capabilities.

Amidst a backdrop of divided opinions among American officials regarding Russia’s space ambitions, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reportedly voiced concerns directly to China and India, warning that a nuclear detonation in space would impact not only US satellites but those of China and India too.

This all comes after House Intelligence Committee Chair Mike Turner publicly called for President Biden to declassify information on a “serious national security threat.” White House national security communications adviser John Kirby mentioned the threat is “related to an anti-satellite capability that Russia is developing.”

Despite the claims, Russian President Vladimir Putin has pushed back, claiming that Russia is not seeking to put nuclear weapons in space. He said, “Our position is clear and transparent: We have always strongly opposed, and continue to oppose, the deployment of nuclear weapons in outer space. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu echoed Putin’s denial, stating the West is aware Russia is not pursuing such plans.