Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia would view an attack from a non-nuclear country, supported by a nuclear power, as a “joint attack.” This could imply a willingness to use nuclear weapons in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In remarks made on Wednesday night, Putin indicated that Russia is considering changing the rules regarding the use of its nuclear arsenal. Ukraine, which does not have nuclear weapons, receives military aid from the U.S. and other nuclear-armed nations.
These comments come as Ukraine seeks approval to use long-range Western missiles against military sites in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is currently in the U.S. to meet with President Biden, with Ukraine’s military needs likely at the forefront of their discussions.
This year, Ukraine has made gains into Russian territory and aims to target bases in Russia that are launching missiles into Ukraine. In response to Putin’s statements, Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, accused Russia of using “nuclear blackmail” to intimidate others.
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Putin has previously threatened nuclear action, which Ukraine has labeled as “nuclear sabre-rattling” to deter support from its allies. China, a key ally of Russia, has urged restraint, with President Xi Jinping reportedly advising Putin against using nuclear weapons.
After a meeting with his Security Council, Putin announced plans to revise Russia’s nuclear doctrine, specifying the conditions under which nuclear weapons might be used. He mentioned that Russia would consider using nuclear weapons if there were a large-scale missile or drone attack threatening its sovereignty. He stressed that nuclear weapons are crucial for Russia’s security.
Since World War II, nuclear-armed countries have followed a policy of deterrence, where the threat of mutual destruction prevents major conflicts. There are also tactical nuclear weapons, which are smaller and designed for specific targets with less fallout.
In June, Putin warned European nations supporting Ukraine that Russia has more tactical nuclear weapons than are available in Europe, even if the U.S. were to deploy theirs there. He noted that Europe lacks a strong early warning system, making it more vulnerable, and hinted at changes to Russia’s nuclear strategy regarding when it might use its arsenal. Vladimir Putin
