Russia has issued a stark reminder that its nuclear doctrine remains in effect following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a new plan to send advanced weapons to Ukraine. The Kremlin’s warning suggests that increased Western military support for Kyiv could be interpreted within the parameters for potential nuclear weapons use.
On Wednesday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian state media that “Russia’s nuclear doctrine remains in effect, and thus, all its provisions continue to apply.” This statement came two days after President Trump revealed that the United States, in conjunction with its NATO allies, would supply high-end weapons, including Patriot air defense systems, to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia. Trump also noted that European countries would be able to purchase billions of dollars worth of American-made military equipment for Ukraine’s defense.
Russia’s Nuclear Doctrine and Escalation Concerns
Russia’s nuclear rules, as outlined in its doctrine, permit the use of atomic weapons in response to the use of nuclear and other types of weapons of mass destruction against Russia or its allies. Crucially, the doctrine also allows for nuclear use “in case of aggression against Russia with the use of conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened.” A November 2024 revision to Russia’s nuclear declaratory policy further clarified that it could launch nuclear weapons in response to an attack on its territory by a non-nuclear-armed state backed by a nuclear-armed one. This particular clause could be seen as applying to Ukraine, given Kyiv’s significant military support from the U.S. and NATO.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, threats of nuclear escalation have frequently emerged in the ongoing conflict. Russia possesses the world’s largest number of nuclear warheads, followed by the U.S.
Trump’s Shift and NATO’s Role
Trump’s recent announcement marks a notable shift in his approach to providing military aid to Ukraine, following previous hesitations and even temporary pauses in shipments. The new plan involves European NATO members purchasing American-made weapons from the U.S. and then transferring them to Ukraine, with the U.S. potentially backfilling European stockpiles. NATO confirmed that the deal includes missiles, ammunition, and air defense systems.
Peskov also called upon the U.S. to encourage Ukraine to resume peace negotiations with Russia, stating, “In this case, the main mediating efforts are coming from the United States—President Trump and his team. Many statements have been made, many expressions of disappointment voiced, but we certainly hope there is also pressure on the Ukrainian side.” Trump has also issued an ultimatum to Moscow, threatening “severe” tariffs unless Russia agrees to a peace deal within 50 days.
