Kremlin Backs Patrushev Comments On West 'Stoking' Nuclear Conflict

Kremlin spox Dmitri Peskov speaking to reporters regarding comments made by Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev earlier today regarding the risk of nuclear escalation. Peskov seemingly endorses the comments, saying that "Patrushev is the Secretary of the Security Council. He is part of the Kremlin. And his statements are from the Kremlin. As for the Russian Federation, we have a doctrine where everything is clearly spelled out."

• Comes after Patrushev toldstate-run Tass that "The natural consequence of the United States' destructive policies is the deterioration in the global security...The risk that nuclear, chemical and biological weapons will be used is increasing. The international arms control regime has been undermined."
• Peskov states that "The aggressive behaviour of the West to Russia is no secret." Adds that "Dialogue with the USA on strategic security is necessary, but we will not be lectured."
• Separately, Peskov confirms that President Vladimir Putin will meet with Vice Chair of China's Central Military Commission General Zhang Youxia.