Classified military documents obtained by the Financial Times have shed light on Russia's nuclear deterrence policy, approved by President Vladimir Putin in 2020. These documents indicate that Russia's threshold for using tactical nuclear weapons in an armed conflict is lower than previously disclosed. The policy allows for nuclear first strikes in scenarios where Russia's existence as a state is threatened, and also in defense against attacks using conventional weapons.

According to the leaked documents, Russia's criteria for nuclear weapons use include scenarios like an enemy landing on Russian territory, the destruction of specific military targets such as airfields, cruisers, and command centers, as well as the defeat of certain defense units. The documents, which are presentations for naval officers discussing nuclear weapons operating principles and war game scenarios, detail a hypothetical attack by China and the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia to prevent further advancement by invading forces.

President Putin has frequently referred to Russia's nuclear doctrine, especially since the invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago. The ambiguity surrounding Russia's potential use of nuclear weapons during the conflict in Ukraine has raised concerns in the West. Russian officials have given conflicting signals regarding Moscow's stance on nuclear weapons, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.