Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced changes to the country’s nuclear doctrine, warning that Russia could respond with nuclear weapons to a conventional attack if it poses a “critical threat to their sovereignty.” The revisions would lower the threshold for the use of atomic weapons, allowing for a response to a conventional attack involving the support of a nuclear power. The move comes amid tensions with Ukraine and a changing global landscape that Putin claims has created new threats and risks for Russia.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Western powers to disregard Russia’s threats, labeling them as nuclear blackmail. Russia’s hawks have been pushing for a tougher nuclear doctrine, with the revised text detailing conditions for the use of nuclear weapons, including in response to a massive air attack. The revisions also aim to bring neighboring Belarus under Russia’s nuclear umbrella.
The Institute for the Study of War warns that the specific nuclear threats from Putin may be an attempt to generate panic among Western policymakers amid discussions about supporting Ukraine. Analysts express concern over the loosening of conditions for nuclear use and the potential impact on global security.
Russia and the US together control the majority of the world’s nuclear warheads, making any escalation in nuclear threats a cause for widespread concern. Putin has made implicit threats of nuclear attack since launching his war against Ukraine, suspending participation in treaties with the US. Despite Russia’s continued aggression, Ukraine’s allies are urged to remain resolute and not be swayed by Russia’s nuclear threats and military maneuvers.
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