Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated a significant exercise of the country's nuclear forces on Tuesday, showcasing missile launches in a simulation of a retaliatory strike. This demonstration comes amidst escalating tensions with the West over the situation in Ukraine.
During a video call with military leaders, Putin announced that the drills would involve top officials practicing the use of nuclear weapons, including launches of nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles. Defense Minister Andrei Belousov stated that the exercise aims to simulate strategic offensive forces launching a massive nuclear strike in response to an enemy's nuclear attack.
Putin emphasized the importance of Russia's nuclear arsenal as a reliable guarantor of the country's sovereignty and security, particularly in the face of growing geopolitical tensions and emerging threats. He reiterated that Russia views nuclear weapons as the ultimate measure to ensure its security.
The exercise included the test-firing of a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile from the Plesetsk launch pad, as well as launches from nuclear submarines and strategic bombers. All missiles reportedly hit their designated targets successfully.
Last month, Putin warned the U.S. and NATO allies against supporting Ukraine with longer-range weapons, suggesting that such actions could lead to conflict with Russia. He also introduced a revised nuclear doctrine that considers a conventional attack on Russia by a non-nuclear nation supported by a nuclear power as a joint attack on Russia.
Putin's announcement of possible nuclear weapons use in response to a massive air attack is seen as a deterrent to potential threats from the West. The drills on Tuesday follow a series of other exercises conducted by Russia's nuclear forces, including a joint nuclear exercise with Belarus earlier this year.
