Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree authorizing the use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states that receive support from nuclear-armed nations. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a significant shift in Moscow’s defense posture amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The decree, which coincides with the 1,000th day of Russia’s military offensive in Ukraine, expands the conditions under which Russia may deploy nuclear weapons. It follows the U.S. decision to allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles against military sites within Russian territory.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the updated policy considers any aggression from a non-nuclear state supported by a nuclear power as a joint attack. “Aggression by a non-nuclear state with the participation of a nuclear state is considered as a joint attack,” Peskov said, clearly referencing Ukraine and its Western allies.
He emphasized that the decree was necessary to align Russia’s nuclear principles with the current geopolitical reality. “This is a very important document that should be carefully studied internationally,” Peskov added.
While Peskov reiterated that Russia views nuclear weapons as a deterrent and would only use them in retaliation, the decree also allows for their deployment in response to a massive airstrike, even if the attack employs only conventional weapons.
The new policy also extends Russia’s nuclear doctrine to include its close ally, Belarus.
Analysts note that the decree underscores Moscow’s perception of the conflict in Ukraine as a broader confrontation with Western powers. Peskov reaffirmed this view, describing the war as a struggle against the “collective West” and declaring Russia’s commitment to seeing its “special military operation” through to its conclusion.
The announcement has sparked global concern, with calls for a measured international response to prevent further escalation in the ongoing crisis.
