President Vladimir Putin stated on Wednesday that Russia could use nuclear weapons if it were attacked by any state, particularly if the attack was backed by a nuclear power. He emphasized that any conventional attack on Russia, supported by a nuclear-armed country, would be treated as a joint attack.

Speaking at a Security Council meeting, Putin mentioned proposals to amend Russia’s nuclear doctrine. One key proposal was that aggression from a non-nuclear state, but with the backing of a nuclear state, would be regarded as a joint assault on Russia.

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He further clarified that Russia’s use of nuclear weapons could be triggered if it detected a massive launch of missiles, aircraft, or drones against it. Additionally, Russia reserved the right to use nuclear weapons in response to aggression against itself or Belarus, even if conventional weapons were involved.

Putin explained that these changes were made in response to modern military threats and were carefully considered to ensure Russia’s security.