Peskov: Moscow adjusts nuclear policy amid rising Western involvement in Ukraine

The Russian Ministry of Defense will determine the conditions for the use of nuclear weapons in accordance with the updated national nuclear deterrence policy, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced.

His remarks were made during an interview on the "Moscow. Kremlin. Putin" program aired on Russia-1 (VGTRK), Caliber.Az reports.

Peskov emphasized that these decisions are "primarily the prerogative of our military experts," who monitor the types of weapons used and the extent of Western involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. "They closely follow the direct involvement of Western countries in the conflict around Ukraine, and they will not weaken their attention," he said.

This statement came in response to a journalist's question regarding whether certain conditions for nuclear weapon use, as outlined by President Vladimir Putin, had already been met, including the use of drones and missile strikes.

Peskov pointed out the increasing involvement of Western states in the Ukraine conflict, stating, "They are not applying any brakes. On the contrary, they declare their intention to continue to ensure Ukraine's victory." He also mentioned that Ukrainian authorities are "delusionally" speaking about forcing Russia into peace, warning that such talks are "mistaken and could have negative consequences for the Kyiv regime."

"The way the international situation has developed, how tensions around our borders have escalated, and how nuclear powers have essentially taken part in the conflict in Ukraine on the side of Ukraine, all of this necessitated adjustments to our nuclear doctrine and the state policy on nuclear deterrence," Peskov explained.

He confirmed that these adjustments to the national nuclear policy have been prepared and are in the process of being formalized.

Commenting on the position of Western countries, Peskov remarked, "Sober minds have heard us, but the reckless ones continue their reckless policy, which may have very negative consequences for everyone." He noted that the evolving situation required formal documentation and "codification of the new conditions."

In an interview with journalist Pavel Zarubin, Peskov also underscored that Russia relies on the official statements of its partners and opponents to form its understanding of their positions. He stated, "We base our understanding of the approaches of our counterparts, whether they be partners or adversaries, on these official statements. Therefore, this is a direct 'mirror' of the position they hold."

By Khagan Isayev