Kremlin Alters Nuclear Doctrine to Deter Western Support for Ukraine

The Kremlin has updated its nuclear doctrine to discourage Ukraine's Western allies from supporting attacks on Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced the changes, aiming to warn against involvement. This move lowers the threshold for Russia’s potential nuclear response to conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers.

Moscow has revised its nuclear doctrine, signaling a strategic shift aimed at deterring Western allies from supporting Ukraine in attacking Russian territory. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov explained that the adjustments, unveiled by President Vladimir Putin, are designed to act as a caution to Western nations about the potential consequences of their involvement.

In a stringent warning, Putin disclosed on Wednesday that any conventional attack on Russia, if backed by a nuclear power, will be perceived as a coordinated assault on the country. The new directive within Moscow's nuclear framework is reportedly meant to discourage the West from empowering Ukraine with long-range strike capabilities.

Although Putin did not clarify if the modifications would necessitate a nuclear response, the revised doctrine now includes circumstances under which nuclear weapons might be used, particularly in the event of a significant air attack. This deliberate ambiguity aims to make Western nations more hesitant about enabling Ukraine's long-range attacks.

(With inputs from agencies.)