Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree expanding the conditions under which Russia could use nuclear weapons, specifically targeting a non-nuclear state that is supported by nuclear powers. This move, which marks a direct response to Western involvement in the ongoing conflict, came on the 1,000th day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The decision follows a significant policy shift by the Biden administration, which granted Ukraine permission to use US-made ATACMS missiles for the first time, allowing strikes deeper within Russian territory. The approval of these long-range weapons has escalated tensions between Moscow and the West, particularly as Biden approaches the final months of his presidency. His successor, Donald Trump, has expressed skepticism about continued US military aid to Ukraine.
Kremlin officials have emphasized that Western support for Ukraine will not alter the course of the war. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, asserted that the military operation against Ukraine would continue, with no impact from international assistance. He also warned that any aggression by a non-nuclear state, such as Ukraine, in collaboration with nuclear powers, would be seen as a joint attack, further justifying Russia’s stance.
While NATO’s chief has stated that Putin must not “get his way” in Ukraine, there has been some reassurance from the alliance regarding the potential use of nuclear weapons. Just a month ago, the NATO chief downplayed the immediate risk of nuclear escalation, despite Russia’s increasingly “reckless” actions.
The new nuclear doctrine also extends to Russia’s ally, Belarus, further solidifying the strategic ties between the two nations. This decree reflects Putin’s resolve to pressure the West into backing down as Russia’s military operations continue, despite limited territorial gains.
On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces have already used ATACMS missiles to strike targets within Russia’s borders, marking a significant shift in the conflict. Reports indicate that the missiles were deployed against Russian targets in border regions.
The war, now in its third year, has resulted in staggering losses, with over a million casualties reported on both sides. Ukraine, once a thriving nation, has seen its cities and towns reduced to rubble, while both countries grapple with demographic declines caused by the heavy toll of the ongoing conflict. As the war drags on, the humanitarian and demographic impacts are expected to reverberate for generations.
