Russia’s Extensive Nuclear Umbrella Now Includes CSTO Members

Russia’s updated nuclear doctrine is clear and transparent, Shoigu added, recommending that Western countries read it «carefully, without pulling out abstracts and making up anything excessive.»

On November 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree approving the updated nuclear doctrine. The document’s main principle states that the use of nuclear weapons is an extreme measure to protect the country’s sovereignty. The doctrine expands the category of states and military alliances subject to nuclear deterrence. The updated list of reasons for Russia to use nuclear weapons includes, among others, the use of nuclear or other types of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) against it or its allies; aggression against Russia or Belarus using conventional weapons and posing a critical threat to its sovereignty. Aggression against Russia by a non-nuclear state with the participation or support of a nuclear state will be considered as their joint attack.