Russia Updates Nuclear Doctrine Amidst Tensions with Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a revised nuclear doctrine this week, escalating concerns amidst ongoing tensions with Ukraine. The new policy, which outlines conditions under which Russia could employ its nuclear arsenal, was signed on the 1,000th day of the conflict with Ukraine.

The updated doctrine states that any attack on Russia, supported by a nation possessing nuclear capabilities, may be grounds for a nuclear response. This adjustment coincides with recent decisions by U.S. President Joe Biden authorizing Ukraine to utilize long-range U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to target Russian territory.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the revision was «in a timely manner,» responding to inquiries about its timing following Biden’s authorization. The doctrine’s changes include a broader range of scenarios activating Russia’s nuclear options, including an air attack with ballistic and cruise missiles, aircraft, drones, and other flying vehicles.

In this context, Russian ally Belarus is mentioned as a potential trigger for nuclear retaliation, citing possible aggression against it as a justification. This stance aligns with previous assertions of protecting allied territories as crucial to Russia’s defense strategy.

The geopolitical landscape remains tense following this development, with markets reflecting heightened unease. U.S. financial markets experienced a downturn, with both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq seeing declines, as investors shifted towards safer assets like gold and U.S. treasuries. Art Hogan, chief market strategist at B. Riley Wealth Management, noted that the situation appears to be intensifying after a lengthy period of conflict.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Ukraine utilized the newly approved American missiles in an attack on Russia’s Bryansk region, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. This action came shortly after Biden’s authorization, ending a long-standing restriction designed to avoid exacerbating the conflict.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.