President Vladimir Putin has escalated nuclear rhetoric amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, warning that Russia may use nuclear weapons in response to conventional attacks, particularly those supported by nuclear powers. This shift in doctrine comes as Ukraine seeks permission from Western allies to use long-range missiles against Russian targets, raising concerns about potential escalation.
In a recent meeting of Russia's Security Council, Putin outlined changes to the nuclear doctrine, stating that any aggression against Russia from a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear state, would be perceived as a joint attack. This broadening of threats under which Russia might consider a nuclear response heightens the stakes for Ukraine's allies, particularly the United States, France, and the United Kingdom.
The war in Ukraine has reached a critical phase, with Putin's remarks indicating a strategic pivot in response to Western military support for Ukraine. The Kremlin's new stance reflects ongoing tensions and the risk of direct confrontation between Russia and NATO, echoing fears of a potential global conflict.
