Putin: "Russia reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in case of aggression."

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently reiterated that Russia reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in response to aggression. In September 2024, he proposed changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine, stating that an attack from a non-nuclear state, if supported by a nuclear-armed state, would be considered a "joint attack," potentially justifying a nuclear response.

This shift in doctrine appears to be a response to increased Western support for Ukraine, including the provision of advanced weaponry. By broadening the conditions under which nuclear weapons might be used, Russia aims to deter further Western involvement in the conflict.

The international community has expressed concern over these developments, viewing them as a lowering of the threshold for nuclear weapon use and a potential escalation of the ongoing conflict. Analysts suggest that this strategy is intended to coerce the West into limiting its support for Ukraine by highlighting the risks of a broader confrontation.