MAD is an insane game of chicken that we always knew could be tested by madmen, zealots and gamblers. The Russian leader certainly does care about the risks.

MAD is an insane game of chicken that we always knew could be tested by madmen, zealots and gamblers. The Russian leader certainly does care about the risks. However, the nature of the game rewards him for acting that he does not, and the other players for reciprocating. Up to a point, that is. MAD is not a good or stable game.