What is Russia’s nuclear doctrine, newly updated by Vladimir Putin?

Sub : IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently updated Russia’s nuclear doctrine, replacing the 2020 doctrine, signalling a shift in its nuclear weapons policy.
The new policy lowers the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons and introduces additional scenarios for their potential deployment.

Key features of the updated doctrine:

The doctrine reiterates that nuclear weapons are primarily a means of deterrence against adversaries.
Any aggression against Russia by a non-nuclear state involving participation or support from a nuclear state will be treated as a joint attack.
A nuclear response could be considered if reliable information indicates a massive cross-border air attack using aircraft, missiles, or drones.
The doctrine now allows for nuclear use in response to conventional attacks against Russia or Belarus that threaten their sovereignty or territorial integrity. Previously, nuclear use was limited to threats against the existence of the Russian state.
The nuclear deterrent now extends to non-nuclear states that permit their territory, waters, or airspace to be used for aggression against Russia.

New scenarios for Russian nuclear response:

The formation of new military coalitions or the expansion of existing ones near Russia’s borders.
Deployment of enemy military infrastructure close to Russian territory.
Large-scale military drills near Russia’s borders may prompt a nuclear response.

Inclusion of Belarus:

Belarus is officially placed under Russia’s nuclear umbrella, signalling a closer military alliance.