Russia considers nuclear response to NATO support in Ukraine

An influential foreign policy hawk, Sergei Karaganov, has urged President Vladimir Putin to adopt a more aggressive nuclear stance towards the West, particularly in response to NATO's support for Ukraine. In an interview with Kommersant, he argued that Russia should openly declare its readiness to use nuclear weapons against nations perceived as supporting NATO aggression. He suggested that a limited nuclear strike could be executed without escalating to full-scale nuclear war, challenging the prevailing nuclear doctrine that only allows for nuclear retaliation in response to a nuclear attack or existential threats. Karaganov criticized the current nuclear doctrine as inadequate, claiming it fails to deter adversaries and gives them the impression that Russia would not resort to nuclear options. He emphasized the need for a revised doctrine that would assure both current and potential enemies of Russia's willingness to use nuclear weapons if necessary. His comments come in the wake of Ukraine's recent territorial gains in the Kursk region, which have heightened tensions between Russia and NATO. The hawk's statements are significant as they reflect a shift in Russian military thinking and are closely monitored by Western security analysts. Although his views do not represent official policy, they have been given a platform by the Kremlin, indicating a potential alignment with more aggressive military strategies. The call for a revised nuclear doctrine aligns with broader concerns about national security and the perceived threats from NATO. As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the implications of Karaganov's recommendations could lead to a more confrontational stance from Russia, raising the stakes in the ongoing conflict and potentially altering the dynamics of international relations in the region.