Russia Plans Changes to Nuclear Doctrine

Russia plans to amend its nuclear doctrine in response to perceived escalations from the West amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that the revisions are at an advanced stage, although he did not specify the exact changes being considered. The existing doctrine, established by President Vladimir Putin in 2020, allows for nuclear weapon use in response to nuclear attacks or existential threats. This announcement aligns with earlier comments from Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, indicating a clear intent to modify Russia's nuclear stance. Analysts suggest that these threats serve to intimidate Ukraine and its Western allies, which have continued to support Ukraine militarily. The U.S. and its allies maintain that their assistance is aimed at helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression.