The document signed by the Russian leader expands the powers of the president, allowing him to make the exclusive decision on the use of nuclear weapons. For the first time, the doctrine establishes that aggression against Russia or Belarus, including actions using conventional weapons, can serve as a basis for the use of a nuclear arsenal if it represents a critical threat to the sovereignty or territorial integrity of the State of the Union.
Among the conditions for a nuclear response are also mentioned:
- Launch of ballistic missiles directed against Russia;
- Attacks with aerospace weapons, including strategic aircraft, hypersonic missiles and drones.
The doctrine introduces a new interpretation of allied obligations: Russia will consider aggression by a non-nuclear state supported by a nuclear power as an attack requiring an appropriate response.
Putin highlighted that nuclear deterrence issues have been agreed with Belarus, adding that any threat to the Union State may involve the use of a strategic arsenal.
During a public meeting of the Russian Security Council, Putin said Russia takes a responsible approach to nuclear policy and seeks to strengthen international arms control mechanisms. However, faced with, as he himself said, “the threat from the West,” Moscow is obliged to maintain strategic parity.
Putin emphasized that the renewed nuclear triad remains the main guarantor of Russia’s security, ensuring a balance of power and preventing global instability.
