Putin signs decree allowing nuclear response to non-nuclear states backed by nuclear powers

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree allowing the use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states if they are supported by nuclear powers. This change comes on the 1,000th day of the war in Ukraine. The new doctrine states that aggression from a non-nuclear state, with backing from a nuclear state, will be treated as a joint attack. It also permits a nuclear response to significant air attacks, even if only conventional weapons are used. Additionally, the nuclear umbrella will extend to Belarus. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the update aligns with current threats and reflects Russia's stance on deterrence.