Russia is set to modify its nuclear doctrine in reaction to Western actions concerning the Ukraine conflict, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, as reported by TASS state news agency on Sunday.
Ryabkov did not specify the details of the modifications. The current nuclear doctrine of Russia, established by President Vladimir Putin in 2020, permits the use of nuclear weapons if faced with a nuclear assault by an adversary or a conventional assault that jeopardizes the nation's survival.
Russia, which blames the West for using Ukraine as a tool to combat it, has previously indicated its contemplation of altering its doctrine. Ryabkov's statement represents the most definitive indication yet that such changes will be implemented.
"The work is progressing well, and there is a definite intention to amend," TASS quoted Ryabkov as saying. He attributed the decision to the "escalating actions of our Western adversaries" linked to the Ukraine conflict.
