The Russian defense ministry has revealed that the country’s nuclear forces are conducting a significant military drill. Nuclear submarines, aircraft, ships, hundreds of missile launchers and multiple other vessels will also take part in the drill.
The ministry also claimed that 7,800 types of equipment, weapons and 65,000 troops will take part in the drill.
The three-day strategic nuclear exercises started from May 19 and will end on May 21. The exercises are aimed at preparing forces to respond to external threats.
Reports have revealed that forces will launch of ballistic and cruise missiles and it will take place across regions in the Leningrad and Central military districts.
The drill announcement comes a day after the Belarusian Defense Ministry said it launched its own nuclear weapons exercises in coordination with the Russian military. President Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials have frequently engaged in nuclear saber-rattling since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in order to deter Western countries from sending military aid to Kyiv, reported The Moscow Times.
According to Russian defense officials, the exercises are designed to test the readiness of the country’s strategic and tactical nuclear forces. Military units across several regions are reportedly participating in coordinated operations that include missile deployment, rapid mobilization, and simulated response scenarios.
One of the key features of the exercise is the involvement of nuclear-capable missile systems such as the Iskander-M. Russian state media also highlighted participation from long-range aviation units and naval assets, including submarines capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Belarus, a close ally of Russia, is also taking part in the drills, reflecting deeper military coordination between the two countries.
The timing of the exercise has drawn international attention. In recent weeks, Ukraine has intensified drone attacks targeting areas inside Russian territory, while NATO members have increased military assistance to Kyiv. Analysts believe the nuclear drills are intended to send a strong strategic message to Western governments and demonstrate Russia’s military preparedness.
Although experts do not see the exercises as an indication of an immediate nuclear threat, they warn that such actions contribute to an already tense global security environment. The display of nuclear capability can increase uncertainty and heighten concerns about potential miscalculations during a period of ongoing conflict.
Western leaders have repeatedly criticized Russia’s use of nuclear rhetoric since the start of the war in Ukraine. At the same time, Moscow argues that NATO’s expanding military involvement near its borders poses a direct threat to Russian national security.
The latest drills underline how deeply the Ukraine conflict has reshaped global military dynamics. As both sides continue to strengthen their defense positions, fears remain that prolonged confrontation between Russia and the West could further destabilize international security.
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