Fri Sep 27 21:26:04 UTC 2024: ## Putin Raises Nuclear Stakes: New Doctrine Threatens West, Experts Say
**Moscow, Russia -** Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again rattled the international community with a new threat, this time by announcing changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine. In a meeting with his Security Council, Putin stated that Russia would potentially lower the bar for using nuclear weapons, specifically threatening retaliation against non-nuclear states acting “in association or alliance” with nuclear powers.
Putin’s declaration comes as Ukraine, supported by the West, continues to push for long-range weapons capable of striking deep inside Russia. The revised doctrine, experts say, serves as a thinly veiled warning to Washington and other backers of Ukraine, implying the potential costs of providing such weaponry could be too high.
This change is seen as a significant shift from the previous doctrine, which did not explicitly distinguish between attacks from nuclear and non-nuclear states. While Putin’s statement leaves room for ambiguity, experts believe it is aimed at escalating the situation and putting pressure on the West.
Nuclear experts like Pavel Podvig and Mariana Budjeryn have pointed out the key changes, emphasizing that the new doctrine allows for a broader interpretation of what constitutes a threat to Russia’s sovereignty. The revised language leaves it up to Putin to define what constitutes an “extreme threat” and a “massive” attack, giving him greater leeway in deciding when to use nuclear weapons.
The announcement has sparked vigorous debate amongst arms-control experts, with some questioning the actual impact of the changes. Others, like Kristin Ven Bruusgaard, highlight the performative aspect of the move, suggesting the main purpose is to draw attention and generate anxiety.
The revised doctrine’s specific details remain shrouded in mystery, with questions lingering regarding the actual document and whether it will provide more clarity on the changes.
The situation remains fluid, with the outcome of Ukrainian President Zelensky’s recent US visit likely to determine whether the West will heed Putin’s nuclear threats or continue supporting Ukraine’s fight against the Russian invasion.
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