Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing Moscow to deploy nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states if they receive backing from nuclear powers.
This announcement, made on Tuesday, marks the 1,000th day of Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine and follows the U.S. decision to permit Kyiv to use long-range missiles to target military sites within Russia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the new policy categorizes aggression from a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear power, as a collective attack.
“Aggression by a non-nuclear state with the participation of a nuclear state is considered as a joint attack,” Peskov told reporters, in a clear reference to Ukraine and its Western allies.
“It was necessary to bring our principles in line with the current situation,” he said, describing the update as a
“very important” document that should be carefully examined internationally.
Peskov emphasized that Russia views nuclear weapons as a deterrent and would only use them if absolutely necessary. The newly signed decree clarifies that Russia could initiate a nuclear response in the event of a significant airstrike, even if the assault involves only conventional weaponry.
Also, Moscow’s revised nuclear policy will now include its close ally, Belarus. Peskov reiterated that Russia perceives its military engagement in Ukraine as a conflict against the “collective West.” He affirmed that Russia remains committed to completing its “special military operation”.