Putin Alters Nuclear Doctrine Amid Ukraine Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a revised nuclear doctrine that significantly expands the circumstances under which Russia would consider using nuclear weapons, particularly in response to conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers. The updated doctrine indicates that any attack on Russia by a non-nuclear state, if backed by a nuclear-armed country, will be regarded as a joint attack, potentially warranting a nuclear response. This announcement coincides with the 1,000th day since the start of Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, amid escalating tensions after the U.S. authorized Ukraine to utilize long-range missiles against Russian targets. Analysts suggest these revisions are intended to deter the West from further military support for Ukraine, reflecting the heightened geopolitical stakes reminiscent of the Cold War era. The doctrine also outlines specific scenarios, such as mass aerial attacks or missile strikes that threaten Russian sovereignty, as triggers for nuclear retaliation. This development underscores the increasing complexity and volatility of global military alliances in the ongoing conflict.