Russia is updating its nuclear doctrine to adapt to current realities, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. This update comes amidst escalating tensions with the United States over Ukraine's use of American-supplied weapons on Russian territory. The Kremlin has accused the US of being a main actor in the ongoing conflict, which began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago.
A senior Russian parliamentary official suggested that Russia might reduce the decision time for using nuclear weapons if threats against the country increase. This follows a recent Ukrainian attack on the Russian Black Sea Fleet headquarters in Sevastopol, which Russia claims was carried out with a US-supplied ATACMS missile loaded with a cluster bomb. The attack resulted in the deaths of two minors and the hospitalization of 82 people.
The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned US diplomatic representative Lynne Tracy, holding the US equally responsible for the attack and warning of consequences. The Kremlin emphasized that the direct involvement of the US, which allegedly led to the deaths of Russian civilians, would not go unpunished.
In a related development, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced during a visit to North Korea that Russia could supply weapons to the country. This pact includes mutual military assistance if either nation is attacked, aimed at countering NATO allies' support for Ukraine. The agreement has raised concerns in the US and South Korea, who fear it could destabilize the Korean peninsula and bolster North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile program.
South Korea has responded by considering sending weapons to Ukraine, marking a significant policy shift from its previous stance of only providing humanitarian aid. Putin warned South Korea against this move, stating it would be a 'very big mistake' and promising corresponding decisions that would displease South Korean leaders.
The discussions about nuclear weapons have intensified, with Russian officials hinting at possible changes to their nuclear doctrine. Former General Andrei Kartapolov mentioned that Russia might adjust the timing for nuclear weapon use if threats increase. This comes after President Putin suggested that Russia could test a nuclear weapon if necessary, although he currently sees no need for it.
- The Kremlin has been vocal about the consequences of US involvement in the conflict, accusing the US of 'killing Russian children' through its support for Ukraine. This rhetoric underscores the deteriorating relations between the two nuclear powers.
- The pact between Russia and North Korea has historical precedents, mirroring a 1961 treaty between the Soviet Union and North Korea. This earlier agreement was scrapped after the Soviet collapse and replaced by a weaker one in 2000. The new pact signifies a strengthening of military ties between the two nations.
- Concerns over the Russian-North Korean pact are not limited to the Korean peninsula. The US and its allies worry that North Korea's support for Russia could prolong the conflict in Ukraine and enhance North Korea's military capabilities.
- The potential policy shift by South Korea to supply weapons to Ukraine marks a significant change in its foreign policy. Until now, South Korea has adhered to a policy of not supplying weapons to countries involved in conflicts, focusing instead on humanitarian aid.
