Putin claims Russia’s right to use nuclear weapons if threatened by any country

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a bold statement, saying that Russia believes it has the right to use nuclear weapons against any country that threatens it.

This comment came during a press conference on Thursday, December 19, as Putin answered a question from a journalist. 

The remarks were reported by BBC.

Last month, Russia updated its nuclear weapons policy, which raised questions at the press conference. The new policy outlines when Russia might consider using its nuclear arsenal.

According to the new rules, if a country that doesn‍‍`t have nuclear weapons attacks Russia with help from a nuclear-powered nation, this attack would be seen as a joint strike on Russia.

When asked if Russia had received any such threats from the West, Putin responded, "I don’t know, ask them." He went on to explain the reasoning behind the change in policy, saying that new military threats are emerging, such as the development of advanced missile defense systems.

Putin emphasized, "If any country threatens Russia, we believe that we have the right to use nuclear weapons against that country."

Putin’s press conferences are usually long, lasting several hours, and are aired live on television. 

While he doesn‍‍`t typically attend these events in person, he was present for this annual session.