Russia’s nuclear chain of command
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Russia’s nuclear doctrine presents four scenarios which could justify the use of nuclear weapons, including being faced with overwhelming conventional forces
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Authorisation
Russian President takes decision to use nuclear weapons

Communication
Briefcase, known as Cheget, kept near president at all times, linking him to central military command

Launch: Russian General Staff can access launch codes and have two ways of firing warheads

Transmit codes
To individual weapons commanders, who would then execute launch procedures

Backup: “Perimeter” system allows General Staff to directly initiate launch of land-based missiles

Cheget (above) does not contain nuclear launch button but instead transmits launch orders to General Staff

Russian President
Vladimir Putin
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How Russia might justify using nuclear weapons

If nuclear weapons or WMD* are used against Russia or its allies

If data shows launch of ballistic missiles aimed at Russia or its allies

If key site is attacked that would undermine Russia’s nuclear forces response actions

If conventional weapons are used against Russia “when very existence of state is in jeopardy”

RS-24 Yars ballistic missile
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*Weapons of mass destruction (chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear weapons) Source: Reuters Pictures: Getty Images, Facebook © GRAPHIC NEWS