Russia has accused the United States of being behind an attack on Crimea using US-supplied missiles, claiming it resulted in the deaths of civilians, including children. This accusation marks a significant escalation in the conflict and has led to warnings from Russia about potential consequences. The Kremlin has also announced updates to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, raising concerns about a possible escalation in the conflict.
Iran’s Supreme Leader’s adviser, Kamal Kharrazi, has stated that Iran may alter its nuclear doctrine if Israel continues to threaten its existence. However, Iran maintains that it has no immediate intention to build nuclear weapons, and its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has previously issued a fatwa prohibiting their development. Despite this, Iran’s former intelligence minister has suggested that Western pressure could push Tehran towards developing nuclear weapons.
Russia has cautioned against escalating tensions with the West, warning that it could lead to a ‘direct military clash’ with nuclear powers. The warning came as the US House of Representatives passed a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine, which drew a negative response from Russia. The aid package, which includes military assistance, was seen by Russia as an escalation of the conflict. Despite the US’s aid, Ukraine continues to face challenges in the east, where Russia has made territorial gains. Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has urged the US Senate to quickly approve the aid package to help Ukraine bolster its defenses and prevent the conflict from expanding.
