Putin amends Russian nuclear policy, clearest warning to Western block

Putin amends Russian nuclear policy, clearest warning to Western block

Durgesh Dubey
26 Sep, 2024

Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that an attack on Russia by a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear-armed country, would be treated as a "joint attack." This statement, made on Wednesday, is seen as a possible threat to use nuclear weapons in the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Putin indicated that Russia is considering revising its nuclear policy, particularly the conditions under which it might use nuclear weapons. Currently, Ukraine, a non-nuclear state, receives military aid from nuclear-armed countries like the U.S.

The comments come at a time when Ukraine is seeking approval to use long-range Western missiles against military targets in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting the U.S. this week to meet President Joe Biden, with the issue expected to be at the top of their discussions.

Ukraine has been targeting Russian bases, citing their involvement in missile attacks on Ukraine. In response to Putin’s comments, Andriy Yermak, Zelensky’s chief of staff, criticized Russia's reliance on "nuclear blackmail" to intimidate the world.

Putin has issued nuclear threats before, which Ukraine and its allies have called "nuclear sabre-rattling." China, a Russian ally, has also urged caution, with reports suggesting President Xi Jinping has advised Putin against using nuclear weapons.

During a meeting with Russia's Security Council, Putin announced a potential expansion of Russia’s nuclear doctrine. He warned that the new guidelines would clarify when and how Russia could transition to nuclear use, including in response to conventional missile strikes on Moscow. He emphasized that Russia would consider using nuclear weapons if it detected a large-scale missile, aircraft, or drone launch aimed at its territory, which could pose a critical threat to Russian sovereignty.

Putin stressed that any aggression from a non-nuclear state supported by a nuclear power would be regarded as a joint attack on Russia. He reiterated that Russia's nuclear arsenal remains the cornerstone of its security.

Since World War II, nuclear-armed states have adhered to a policy of deterrence, aimed at preventing mutually assured destruction in the event of nuclear war. However, Putin's comments referenced tactical nuclear weapons, smaller warheads that can target specific locations without widespread fallout. In June, Putin warned European countries supporting Ukraine about Russia's superior stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons.

Putin hinted at changes to Russia’s nuclear policy earlier this year, saying it would include new criteria that could justify a nuclear response. The revised document, “Basic Principles of State Policy on Nuclear Deterrence,” will list more threats warranting nuclear deterrence, including conventional attacks supported by nuclear states. It will also allow for nuclear weapons use if Russia or its ally Belarus faces aggression.

This development coincides with Zelensky's visit to the U.S., where he is expected to push for long-range missiles to hit targets inside Russia as part of his strategy to force Moscow to negotiate for peace.