Russia makes changes to nuclear doctrine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree approving changes to the country’s nuclear doctrine, outlining the fundamental principles of state policy on nuclear deterrence. The relevant document has been published.

The key principle of the doctrine states that nuclear weapons serve as the last resort for the protection of the country’s sovereignty. However, due to the emergence of new military threats and risks, Russia has clarified the parameters for the use of nuclear weapons.

Specifically, the categories of states and military alliances subject to nuclear deterrence have been expanded. A list of military threats that require neutralization has also been added.

Aggression by any non-nuclear state, particularly with the involvement or support of a nuclear power, will be considered a joint attack on the Russian Federation. In addition, a nuclear response by Russia is possible in the event of a critical threat to its sovereignty, even with conventional weapons, in the event of an attack on Belarus as a member of the Union State, in the event of a mass attack by warplanes, cruise missiles, drones and other aircraft that cross the Russian border.