Russian MP warns of possible change in nuclear doctrine

"If we see increased challenges and threats, we may revise something related to the timing of using nuclear weapons and decide to use it. But of course, it is too early to talk about specifics now," Russian state news agency RIA quoted Mr. Kartapolov as saying.

Chairman of the Russian State Duma Defense Committee Andrei Kartapolov attends the FLEET-24 International Maritime Defense Exhibition in Kronstadt near Saint Petersburg, Russia, June 19. Photo: Reuters

The army general's comments come after recent warnings from President Vladimir Putin that Moscow could change its nuclear doctrine, which sets out the conditions for using such weapons.

Russia's 2020 nuclear doctrine sets out when the Russian president would consider using nuclear weapons. It states that Russia could use nuclear weapons in response to an attack using nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction "when the existence of the state is threatened."

Mr. Putin also said that Russia could test nuclear weapons if necessary, but he said that Russia did not need to do so at the present time in the conflict with Ukraine.

The growing reports of nuclear weapons come as both Russian and US diplomats say the Russia-Ukraine conflict is entering its most dangerous phase.

Ngoc Anh (according to RIA, Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nghi-si-nga-canh-bao-ve-kha-nang-thay-doi-hoc-thuet-hat-nhan-post300444.html