No Indications of Russia Preparing to Attack Ukraine with Nuclear Weapons, says Pentagon
The Pentagon recently responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, stating there is no evidence that Moscow is preparing for nuclear attack on Ukraine. This comes in the wake of Putin’s increasingly aggressive stance on Russia’s nuclear policy, which the Pentagon perceives as a warning to the West.
Pentagon’s Response to Putin’s Rhetoric
Pentagon deputy press secretary, Sabrina Singh, highlighted that Putin’s rhetoric is a continuation of the same tone seen over the past two years. “It’s the same irresponsible rhetoric we’ve seen before,” Singh said. Despite the heightened rhetoric, Singh assured that there are no indications of Russia preparing to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. She added that the Pentagon will continue to closely monitor the situation.
Escalation of Tensions
Singh pointed out that Russia’s potential involvement of third country troops marks a clear escalation in the situation. The Pentagon has warned Russia that the United States is prepared to provide Ukraine with the necessary support if North Korean troops are deployed on the front lines.
US Support for Ukraine
In response to escalating tensions, President Joe Biden authorized supplying anti-personnel mines to Ukraine, following previous approval for US missile strikes on Russia. A defense official has confirmed that the mines are expected to be delivered soon and will be deployed on Ukrainian territory.
The US has previously supplied Kiev with anti-tank mines. These new anti-personal landmines, which can be deployed quickly, are designed to thwart the advance of ground forces.
Russia’s Updated Nuclear Deterrence Policy
Meanwhile, President Putin approved updates to Russia’s nuclear deterrence policy. The updated policy states that an attack by a non-nuclear state, backed by a nuclear power, will be considered as a joint attack on Russia.
This development in Russia’s nuclear policy further highlights the increasing tensions between Russia, Ukraine, and the Western powers.
