Lukashenko: Russia’s change in nuclear policy to deter Western aggression

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has endorsed recent changes to Russia’s nuclear policy, describing them as a necessary deterrent against Western aggression. He believes the policy shift will dampen the enthusiasm of Western adversaries by tackling “hotheads” who ignored Moscow’s nuclear signals earlier this year.

On September 25, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed an expansion of scenarios justifying nuclear consideration, citing a potential attack with planes, missiles or drones. The announcement followed discussions between the United States and the United Kingdom on allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russian targets, which prompted a harsh response from Moscow.

Lukashenko, a staunch Putin ally, says the policy update was long overdue, stressing that it aims to counter possible Western strikes. Meanwhile, Ukraine accuses Russia of nuclear bullying, with President Zelenskiy urging his allies to ignore Putin’s threats, underscoring ongoing tensions in the region.

(With input from agencies.)