Russia says Western actions compel it to boost its nuclear deterrent

Russia is signaling its intent to bolster its nuclear deterrent in response to what it perceives as escalating actions from Western adversaries. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov clarified that Russia is not altering its nuclear doctrine, which permits the use of nuclear weapons in response to an existential threat. However, he emphasized that the evolving situation necessitates a reassessment of Russia's security needs. Ryabkov warned that the current trajectory of escalation from opponents requires Russia to enhance its deterrence measures, including recent exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons.