Nuclear War as a Trigger of Climatic Catastrophe: Modern Lessons and the Hypothesis of an Event ~26,000 Years Ago

This monograph presents an interdisciplinary analysis of a hypothetical large-scale regional nuclear conflict that may have occurred approximately 26,000 years ago, at the onset of the Last Glacial Maximum. The study examines the direct physical effects of nuclear explosions as well as secondary cascading catastrophes triggered by the destruction of critical infrastructure, including nuclear power plants, chemical facilities, biological laboratories, and oil and gas infrastructure. Special attention is given to the climatic consequences, particularly the nuclear winter effect, disruption of the thermohaline circulation (AMOC), destruction of the ozone layer, and long-term environmental degradation. The work also explores possible geological consequences, such as induced seismicity, coastal subsidence, and changes in shorelines. The hypothesis is placed in the context of paleoclimatic data from the Last Glacial Maximum and Heinrich Event 2, genetic bottlenecks in human populations, and mythological memory preserved in various cultures. The monograph proposes a verifiable research program aimed at searching for potential technogenic markers of such an event. In addition, the study draws parallels with contemporary risks associated with nuclear arsenals, climate change, and the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, offering strategic lessons for modern civilization.