Official UN Security Council announcements or credible news sources

Putin Orders Tactical Nuclear Drills in Response to Western Military Threats

May 7, 2024, 07:44 AM

In response to perceived threats from Western officials, Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Russian military to conduct tactical nuclear weapon drills. These exercises, involving missile units and naval forces of the Southern Military District, are intended to increase the readiness of non-strategic nuclear forces. The drills are a direct reaction to statements from Western countries about possibly sending troops into Ukraine. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that the exercises aim to ensure Russia's security and deter Western aggression. This military response comes amid heightened tensions between NATO and Russia, with recent Western discussions on military involvement in Ukraine escalating the situation.