Russia says its new nuclear doctrine signals response to Biden administration’s actions

Russia’s recently updated nuclear doctrine is a direct response to the outgoing U.S. administration’s actions, which have provoked the ongoing Ukrainian conflict, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Peskov emphasized that President Vladimir Putin had instructed officials to adjust Russia’s nuclear posture to address the evolving threats posed by Western nations, particularly the United States, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“Although President Putin has given instructions to prepare changes to adapt our doctrine to the conditions of the current confrontation, which is provoked by Western countries, Putin has to respond to the unprecedented escalation primarily provoked by the outgoing administration in Washington,” Peskov stated.

Peskov further criticized the U.S. for its actions, claiming that with each passing step, the United States continues to escalate tensions around the Ukrainian conflict. “It has to be done all the time, because every time they make more and more reckless steps, provoking tensions,” he added.

Notably, the updated Russian nuclear doctrine, establishing a framework for conditions under which Putin could order a strike from the world's biggest nuclear arsenal, was approved by him last week. The doctrine says any attack by a non-nuclear power supported by a nuclear power would be considered a joint attack, and that any attack by one member of a military bloc would be considered an attack by the entire alliance.

The renewed doctrine was primarily triggered by escalating Western involvement in the Ukraine conflict, especially through arms supplies and military support. Russia views this as an existential threat, particularly with NATO backing Ukraine. 

By Khagan Isayev