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When Russia states that its nuclear doctrine remains in effect, it refers to a formal military policy that permits the potential use of nuclear weapons under certain circumstances. Specifically, Russia has articulated that if its existence is threatened—whether through conventional or nuclear means—or if a nuclear-armed nation allies with Russia’s adversaries, Moscow may consider employing nuclear options.
This doctrine serves as a stark reminder that the threat of nuclear escalation persists in the background of the Ukraine conflict. Moscow's repeated insistence on its nuclear posture signals an underlying concern about U.S. and NATO support for Kyiv, which Russia perceives as a significant threat to its national security.