Putin signals potential nuclear response to attacks supported by nuclear powers

On September 25, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that Russia might use nuclear weapons against any state attacking it, especially if supported by a nuclear power. This marks a significant escalation in Russia's nuclear policy. Experts warn that if Russia were to launch a nuclear strike, Europe would struggle to defend itself. NATO's air defenses are estimated to be insufficient, with less than 5 percent of the necessary capacity to intercept a large-scale attack. In response to rising tensions, some European cities are updating Cold War-era nuclear shelters. Interest in these facilities has increased since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but experts caution that there would be little time to seek shelter in the event of an attack.