Putin Issues Nuclear Retaliation Threat Over Potential Ukraine Strikes
Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a grave warning to Western nations on Wednesday, cautioning that Russia could resort to nuclear retaliation if attacked with conventional missiles. Putin emphasized that any strike on Russia, supported by a nuclear power, would be viewed as a joint attack, marking a significant shift in Russia’s nuclear doctrine.
This stern message comes as the U.S. and UK discuss the possibility of allowing Ukraine to launch conventional Western missiles into Russian territory. Putin’s comments were made during a meeting of Russia’s Security Council, where he explained that the rapidly evolving global landscape necessitates updates to Russia’s defense strategy.
Outlining a key change in Russia’s nuclear policy, Putin stated, “It is proposed that aggression against Russia by any non-nuclear state, but with the participation or support of a nuclear state, be considered a joint attack on the Russian Federation.”
He further clarified that Russia would respond with nuclear weapons if it detects large-scale missile, aircraft, or drone launches targeting the country. Additionally, the Kremlin leader indicated that nuclear weapons could be used if either Russia or its ally, Belarus, faces aggression, even if it involves conventional weaponry.
These updates, Putin explained, are crucial adaptations to the modern military threats Russia faces. The revisions mark a shift in Russia’s nuclear strategy amid rising tensions between Russia and the West, reminiscent of the Cold War era.
The conflict in Ukraine has driven these concerns, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urging Western allies to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles like the U.S. ATACMS and British Storm Shadows to strike deep into Russian territory. Zelenskyy aims to weaken Moscow’s offensive capabilities as Russian forces continue to make gradual gains in eastern Ukraine.
With Russia currently controlling nearly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, the conflict is entering a dangerous phase. Russian officials have warned of the potential for global conflict if the West continues its involvement. Both Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden have expressed fears that a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO could escalate into World War III, as Russia and the U.S. collectively possess 88% of the world’s nuclear warheads.
Putin also revealed that discussions regarding changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine have been ongoing for the past year, stating, “The list of military threats has been supplemented.” He reiterated that any credible intelligence about a large-scale aerial attack on Russian borders could prompt a nuclear response, highlighting the seriousness of Russia’s new stance.
