Power Play

CHAPTER 1 MOSCOW, RUSSIA

Russian President Yuri Kalinin entered the Kremlin conference room, joining his senior civilian and military advisors. All stood when Kalinin entered, returning to their seats after he took his position at the head of the table. Kalinin sensed the tension in the room as he prepared to review the aftermath of their invasion of Ukraine and Lithuania. The Americans had overcome Russia’s attempt to prevent them from intervening and had soundly defeated the Russian Navy in the process. Black plumes of smoke were still rising from Russian surface combatants — those lucky enough to have not been sunk — and hours earlier, Kalinin had been forced to order the withdrawal of all Russian troops from the two Eastern European countries.

Assessing the status of Russia’s military, along with potential damage control on the political front, were the main topics of this morning’s meeting. Kalinin turned to Foreign Minister Lavrov, who delivered his brief, focusing on efforts to repair diplomatic relations with Ukraine, Lithuania, and the United States, as well as the entire NATO alliance. Preventing additional economic sanctions, on top of those already in place for Russia’s annexation of Crimea, was high on the agenda. Various conciliatory proposals were discussed. However, when the topic shifted to the status of Russia’s military, the tone took a decidedly different turn.

General Andropov, Kalinin’s senior military advisor, addressed the Russian president. “We cannot let this stand. America has humiliated us. By the end of the day, images of Russian warships on fire and drifting aimlessly will be displayed on every Russian television broadcast. Public confidence in our military — and in your administration — will be seriously degraded.”

Andropov didn’t have to expound. Kalinin was up for reelection next year, being challenged by a Vladimir Putin protégé who currently led in the polls. When the country learned of the military debacle, he’d surge even further ahead. Drastic action would be required to shift public opinion and reestablish the world’s respect for the Russian military. Kalinin listened intently as Andropov continued.

“Despite our surface combatant losses, our submarine fleet remains a viable asset. We still have thirty-five diesel and nuclear attack submarines, while America has only eighteen fast attack submarines after their war with China and the losses inflicted at our hands. Additionally, we may soon have an unsurmountable advantage over our American counterparts. Kazan heads to sea tomorrow for the next phase of testing. If the test is successful, our submarines will be invincible. The American Navy will be at our mercy, which opens the door to numerous possibilities.

“However,” Andropov added, “the required test is unusual and carries notable risks. Before the Navy proceeds, we need your approval.” He slid a folder across the table to Kalinin.

The Russian president read the directive, carefully considering the plan and its ramifications. After a long moment, he signed it. He looked up at Andropov.

“Proceed with the test.”