Putin Lowers Nuclear Threshold Amidst Ukraine Tensions

Russia has updated its nuclear doctrine, allowing for a nuclear response if Western non-nuclear rockets are used by Ukraine against Russia. This change follows the U.S. approval of Ukraine's use of the American-made ATACMS to target Russia's Kursk region. The Kremlin's announcement comes amid tensions over U.S. and North Korean military cooperation with Ukraine and Russia, respectively. Western leaders, including President Biden, emphasize avoiding direct conflict with Russia to prevent nuclear escalation.