Russia Warns of Nuclear Retaliation Over Potential U.S. Weapon Transfers to Ukraine

Dmitry Medvedev states that even discussing nuclear weapon transfers to Kyiv could be seen as preparing for conflict with Russia.

Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, warned that transferring nuclear weapons to Ukraine could be considered an act of aggression against Russia.
Medvedev referred to Russia's updated nuclear doctrine, which allows for nuclear retaliation if the nation's security is jeopardized, including by conventional weapons or threats to critical infrastructure.
The comments follow unconfirmed reports suggesting U.S. officials might consider equipping Ukraine with nuclear weapons as a deterrent against Russian aggression.
Medvedev criticized President Biden, calling the idea of arming Ukraine with nuclear weapons 'absurd' and accusing U.S. leadership of risking global nuclear conflict.
Ukraine, which relinquished its nuclear arsenal in 1994 under the Budapest Memorandum, has recently expressed regret over the decision but denies any plans to develop nuclear weapons.