Putin Revises Nuclear Doctrine Amid Escalating Tensions with the West
In a series of recent announcements, Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined significant changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for nuclear response amid ongoing tensions over the Ukraine conflict. The Kremlin intends these revisions as a clear warning to Western nations, asserting that Russia may consider using nuclear weapons not only against nuclear states but also against non-nuclear ones, should they perceive a threat from Western ‘aggression’. This shift comes as the Biden administration pledges new support for Ukraine, prompting calls from key Russian officials for heightened readiness of their nuclear arsenal. As NATO prepares to strengthen its military presence in Eastern Europe, concerns grow regarding the potential for a nuclear catastrophe. Analysts suggest that these developments reflect Putin's efforts to assert control over the narrative as he faces pressure from both domestic and international fronts. The broader implications of this revised doctrine have sparked worldwide debate about the future of nuclear deterrence and the risks of escalation in the region.
Al Jazeera English, The Guardian, The New York Times, The Associated Press, Newsweek, BBC.com, Reuters, Fox News, The Washington Post, NDTV