In a press conference following his trip to North Korea and Vietnam, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a warning on Thursday, stating that Russia could modify its nuclear doctrine. The declaration comes amidst escalating tensions between Russia and the West, fueled by Putin's ongoing involvement in neighboring Ukraine.

Russia's nuclear doctrine outlines the circumstances under which the country can employ nuclear weapons. Putin asserted that Moscow might justify the use of such weapons if another nation utilizes them against Russia or if the "very existence of the state is put under threat."

During the press briefing, Putin emphasized that Russia is cognizant of a "potential adversary" working on new elements that could potentially lower the threshold for nuclear weapon use. Although not explicitly specified, Putin's rhetoric seems to have been prompted in part by remarks made by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on June 17. Stoltenberg had mentioned that NATO members were discussing increased nuclear readiness in response to growing threats from Russia and China, but did not propose lowering the threshold for nuclear weapon use.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US-based think tank, analyzed Putin's statement and argued that it was an attempt to frame Russia's aggression in Ukraine as a battle for its sovereignty. The ISW suggested that Putin's reference to lowering the threshold for nuclear weapon use signifies a warning to Ukraine's allies, dissuading them from supporting efforts to decisively defeat Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

However, the ISW contended that Putin's nuclear threat was part of a broader Kremlin strategy to dissuade Ukraine's allies from effectively countering Russia's illegal incursion. They believed it was unlikely to escalate into actual nuclear conflict since a Russian defeat in Ukraine would not pose a direct threat to Russia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, but rather to the stability of Putin's regime.

Earlier this month, Putin referred to Russia's nuclear doctrine as a "living instrument" that could be modified. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also echoed this sentiment, warning that Moscow may revise its nuclear doctrine in response to the "unacceptable and escalatory actions" of the West. While Ryabkov did not elaborate on the specific changes, he emphasized that recent actions by the US and Ukraine's NATO allies were forcing Russia to reconsider its position.

Putin's announcement regarding a potential revision of Russia's nuclear doctrine underscores the mounting tensions between the country and the West. As this situation continues to evolve, the implications for global security remain a cause for concern.

Newsweek has reached out to NATO for comment on the situation. For tips on world news stories or questions regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, please contact us at worldnews@newsweek.com.