MOSCOW: The Kremlin said Thursday that an updated nuclear doctrine that will allow Russia to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states in the event of a “massive” air attack should be seen as a warning to the West.
On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to broaden Russia’s rules on the use of its nuclear arsenal.
Under the new proposals, Moscow reserves the right to launch a nuclear response if it faces a “massive” air attack. The updated doctrine allows for a nuclear strike against non-nuclear states that are backed by nuclear powers, a clear indication directed at Ukraine and its Western allies.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that these changes should be viewed as a significant signal to nations that might consider participating in an attack against Russia. “This is a warning of the consequences if they engage in hostile actions against our country through various means, not necessarily nuclear,” Peskov said.
Although he did not specifically mention Ukraine, Peskov said that the changes to Russia’s nuclear deterrent are a response to escalating tensions along its borders. He emphasized that there are “no questions” regarding an increase in Russia’s nuclear arsenal.
