Biden's Strategic Nuclear Directive Targets Russia, China, North Korea

US President Joe Biden has approved a new nuclear strategy to address potential threats from Russia, China, and North Korea. The revised guidance, updated every four years, adjusts US capabilities to counter rapidly expanding nuclear arsenals of these adversaries.

US President Joe Biden approved a document earlier this year, directing the armed forces to prepare for possible coordinated nuclear confrontations with Russia, China, and North Korea, according to the New York Times. The US publication states that in March, Biden approved a revised strategy titled the 'Nuclear Employment Guidance.'

This strategy revision comes amid North Korea's advancing nuclear threats, China's rapid nuclear arsenal expansion, and perceived nuclear threats from Russia. As per NYT, the confidential document is updated every four years, with only a limited number of hard copies distributed to key security officials and Pentagon commanders.

During a forum hosted by the Arms Control Association in June, Pranay Vaddi, senior director for arms control, disarmament, and nonproliferation on the National Security Council, noted the issuance of the updated guidance. Vaddi warned that Pyongyang, Beijing, and Moscow are diversifying and expanding their nuclear weapons stockpiles at a 'breakneck' speed, and emphasized the need for the US to adjust its posture and capabilities to deter growing threats in a 'new' nuclear era.

The NYT also quoted Vipin Narang, former acting assistant Secretary of Defense for space policy, stating the updated guidance accounts for multiple nuclear adversaries, particularly the significant increase in the size and diversity of China's nuclear arsenal.

Meanwhile, Russia and North Korea signed a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' treaty in June during President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang. Similarly, Russia and China reaffirmed their 'no limits' partnership during a summit in Beijing this past May. Washington has repeatedly criticized Beijing for its support of Russia's military industrial base.

(With inputs from agencies.)