Putin's New Red Line: After Biden OKs US Missiles For Ukraine, Russia Warns Massive Strikes Could Trigger Nuclear Response

In a significant policy shift, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a revised nuclear doctrine on Tuesday (19 November), declaring that any conventional attack on Russia by a nation supported by a nuclear power would be regarded as a joint attack on the Russian Federation.

The move signals a hardened stance amid escalating tensions with the West and ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The revised doctrine, which allows for a nuclear response to any massive aerial assault or attacks threatening Russia's sovereignty, aligns with Putin's efforts to leverage his country's nuclear capabilities.

This update comes 1,000 days after Russia launched its military offensive in Ukraine on 24 February 2022.

The Kremlin's move follows United States President Joe Biden's approval for Ukraine's use of US made ATACMS missiles to strike targets within Russia.

Asked about the timing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the update was "in a timely manner" and instructed by Putin earlier this year to reflect the evolving geopolitical situation.

The new policy highlights that an attack on Russia by a non-nuclear power with the “participation or support of a nuclear power” will be seen as a joint aggression.

It further broadens its scope, stating that any attack threatening the "sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Russia or Belarus could justify nuclear retaliation, though it does not explicitly guarantee such a response.

Additionally, the doctrine asserts that aggression against Russia by a member of a military bloc will be treated as aggression by the entire bloc, a pointed reference to NATO.

The Kremlin also reiterated its determination to achieve its objectives in Ukraine.

“The military operation against Kyiv continues,” Peskov stated, adding that Western aid "cannot affect the outcome" of Russia’s campaign.

This revised nuclear posture reflects Putin's strategy to press the West amid a protracted conflict and underscores Moscow's resolve to escalate its deterrence policies in response to perceived threats.

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