Moscow, Russia. Russia said it delivered nuclear munitions to field storage facilities in Belarus and showcased elements of its strategic nuclear forces as tensions rose with European NATO members over the war in Ukraine and drone activity in the Baltic.
Nuclear munitions and training in Belarus
Russia said a missile unit in Belarus is training to receive special munitions for the mobile Iskander-M tactical missile system, including loading munitions onto launch vehicles. Moscow said the munitions were delivered to field storage facilities in Belarus.
Large-scale nuclear exercises across Russia and Belarus
Moscow said it is conducting some of its biggest nuclear exercises in years, involving 64,000 people to drill forces in “the preparation and use of nuclear forces in the event of aggression”. The three-day exercises began on Tuesday across Russia and Belarus and involve the Strategic Missile Forces, the Northern and Pacific fleets, long-range aviation, and units from the Leningrad and Central military districts.
Showcased strategic systems
As part of the drills, Russia displayed a Borei-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, Il-38 anti-submarine aircraft, a MiG-31 armed with a Kinzhal hypersonic missile and RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Putin comments on nuclear doctrine
President Vladimir Putin described the use of nuclear weapons as a “last resort” and stressed the importance of maintaining the nuclear triad as a guarantor of sovereignty and strategic deterrence.
Exercise footage and typical procedures
Russian nuclear exercises typically use dummy warheads. A video released by the defence ministry showed a tarp-backed military truck travelling with minimal security, while other footage showed nuclear submarines, aircraft and warships.
Context of Ukraine war and NATO tensions
Russia said the drills come as it is locked in an existential struggle with the West over Ukraine. Throughout the war, Putin has issued reminders of Russia’s nuclear capabilities as a warning to the West against expanding support for Kyiv, while Ukraine and some Western leaders have dismissed such moves as irresponsible sabre rattling.
Claims involving Baltic countries
Moscow has accused Baltic countries of allowing Ukraine to fly over their territory to attack northern Russia, an accusation that NATO has denied.
How do you think these exercises will affect tensions between Russia and NATO?