By Brandon Gage The chances of Russian President Vladimir Putin using a nuclear weapon in his failing “special military operation” in Ukraine are increasing “by the day” as losses mount and his options dwindle, according to an ex-Central Intelligence Agency official with contacts inside Russia. Retired agent Robert Baer explained to CNN on Tuesday that “I think the chances of his de-escalating are close to zero. I mean, he simply cannot give up so much ground and be seen to be losing and continue as leader of Russia.” Putin, Baer said, is “a strongman. He’s portrayed himself as that for the la…
