Blinken Expresses Concern Over Potential Russian Nuclear Weapon Use

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed Washington’s deep concern over the possibility of Russia using nuclear weapons.

Speaking to the Financial Times, Blinken said, "Even if the likelihood increases from 5% to 15%, it is extremely serious."

He added that Washington remains highly apprehensive about this possibility, suggesting that China could play a deterrent role in the matter.

On November 19, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved an updated nuclear doctrine for the country.

According to the presidential decree, “To enhance the Russian state’s policy on nuclear deterrence, I hereby adopt the document titled ‘Foundations of the State Policy of the Russian Federation in the Field of Nuclear Deterrence.’” The decree took effect immediately upon signing.

Putin’s signing of the decree amending Russia’s nuclear deterrence policy came two days after reports that US President Joe Biden authorized Ukrainian forces to conduct strikes deep into Russian territory using long-range ATACMS missiles.

Commenting on the decree, the Kremlin stated that updating Russia’s nuclear doctrine was essential to align it with the current political landscape.