Russia could use nuclear weapons if it is struck with conventional missiles: Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently made a significant declaration regarding the potential use of nuclear weapons. On September 25, 2024, Putin warned that Russia could deploy nuclear weapons if it is attacked with conventional missiles by any nation. He emphasized that Moscow would treat any conventional attack, especially if supported by a nuclear power, as a “joint attack” on Russia, thereby widening the circumstances under which Russia might resort to nuclear retaliation.This statement is viewed as a direct message to the West, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the military support Ukraine is receiving from Western nations. Putin’s remarks are part of a broader revision of Russia’s nuclear doctrine, signaling the possibility of nuclear escalation if Russia perceives any existential threat, even from conventional military strikes. His speech underscores the tense geopolitical climate and the increasing risk of nuclear conflict amid the war in Ukraine and Western involvement.This development has sparked global concern, as it lowers the threshold for nuclear weapon use by Russia, further intensifying the dangers of escalation in the ongoing conflict.