Russian nuclear strike talk is more than empty threat
Journal: Emerald expert briefings
Year: 2022

Significance Putin's warning came in a September 30 speech celebrating the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, itself a new phase in the war. Moscow claims the right to defend captured lands by the same doctrinal rules that apply to Russia. Unlike Washington, Moscow explicitly allows for first nuclear arms use in its military doctrine. Impacts Western states and most other countries will not accept the annexation as a legal or moral move. The annexation ends any discussion of returning Crimea,