Putin approves revised nuclear doctrine defining joint assaults with allies

Russia has updated its nuclear doctrine, now defining any conventional attack on the country, supported by a nuclear-armed ally, as a joint assault. This change responds to increased Western military aid to Ukraine, particularly from the U.S. President Vladimir Putin approved the revised policy amid concerns over U.S. long-range missile support for Ukraine. Kremlin officials emphasize the need to protect national security as Western military backing for Kyiv grows. The updated doctrine comes as tensions rise between Russia and the West, with the Kremlin viewing U.S. actions as provocations. Russia maintains that its nuclear weapons are a deterrent, intended for extreme circumstances only.