“Signal for hostile countries” –

Moscow has said it is ready to review its doctrine on nuclear deterrence. During a meeting of the National Security Council, Vladimir Putin presented the possible innovations. Among these, Russia will also consider “a joint attack” against the country “aggression by a non-nuclear state but with the participation or support of a nuclear state” and, therefore, the use of nuclear weapons for defense in case it has “reliable information on a massive launch of air and space weapons crossing the Russian state border”. The Federation, the Kremlin leader clarified, takes a highly responsible approach to issues related to nuclear weapons and is committed to preventing the “proliferation of nuclear weapons and their components,” he said.

The new changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine should be regarded as “a certain signal to hostile countries.” This is what Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press conference. “This should be considered a certain signal,” he said, speaking to reporters. Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine sends a warning signal to the West about the consequences of an attack, not necessarily by nuclear means, the official explained. “Indeed, the whole world is well aware of our nuclear potential and its deterrent role. Naturally, nuclear deterrence is regulated taking into account elements of tension that are developing along the perimeter of our borders,” Peskov continued, adding that Government officials and analysts “understand the gravity” of Putin’s statements.