Statements from NATO or Western military commands, credible international news sources

Putin Orders Russian Drills with Tactical Nuclear Weapons Amid Western Threats

May 6, 2024, 08:04 AM

The Russian Ministry of Defense has announced that it will conduct military exercises involving the deployment and operational use of tactical and non-strategic nuclear weapons. These drills, ordered by President Vladimir Putin, are a response to what Russia perceives as provocative statements and threats from Western officials. The exercises will involve missile units, naval forces, and aviation of the Southern Military District, which includes areas near Ukraine. The drills aim to enhance the readiness of Russia's non-strategic nuclear forces to perform combat tasks and practice for deployment.