Russian forces have initiated military drills near Ukraine, simulating the use of tactical nuclear weapons. This move responds to perceived threats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and their allies, as well as increasing Western involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
According to The Guardian, UK, President Vladimir Putin ordered these drills earlier this month. Russian officials stated that the exercises serve as a warning to the West against escalating tensions further.
Russia is particularly incensed by French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion of deploying European troops to fight Russia in Ukraine. Additionally, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s remark supporting Ukraine’s right to use UK-supplied weapons to target sites in Russia has further provoked Moscow.
On Tuesday, the Russian defence ministry released footage showing trucks transporting missiles to a field where launch systems were prepared, and troops at an airfield readying a bomber to carry a nuclear warhead.
The drills are being conducted in Russia’s southern military district, headquartered in Rostov-on-Don, which borders Ukraine and includes areas occupied by Russia. The first stage involves loading launch vehicles, driving to launch sites, and equipping planes with hypersonic Kinzhal missiles.
