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Putin Approves New Nuclear Doctrine, Allowing Use of Nuclear Weapons Against Conventional Attacks on Russia, Belarus

Nov 19, 2024, 09:48 AM

Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved an updated nuclear doctrine, expanding the conditions under which Russia could consider using nuclear weapons. The new doctrine, signed into law via Decree No. 991, states that any attack on Russia by a member of a military bloc will be considered as aggression by the entire bloc. It also outlines that Russia could use nuclear weapons in response to a conventional missile assault supported by a nuclear power. This change comes after President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to use US-made long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russia. The doctrine emphasizes Russia's readiness to use nuclear weapons to deter aggression against itself or its allies, specifically mentioning Belarus. The decision to use nuclear weapons remains solely with the president, and the doctrine now includes scenarios where a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear power, launches an attack on Russia or its allies. Russian spokesperson Peskov has commented on the possibility of a nuclear response.