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Putin Oversees Nuclear Drills Simulating Massive Strike, Says Nuclear Forces Must Be Ready

Oct 29, 2024, 01:37 PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Russia would respond if Ukraine is allowed to strike deep into Russian territory with long-range Western missiles. Speaking on Sunday, Putin stated that the defense ministry 'will offer a range of responses' to address this potential threat. On Tuesday, Putin oversaw strategic nuclear deterrence exercises, including the practical launches of ballistic and cruise missiles such as Yars and Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles. The drills involved launching a Sineva ballistic missile from the Novomoskovsk submarine and simulated a massive nuclear strike in response to an enemy attack. Putin emphasized that the use of nuclear weapons is a last resort, intended to ensure the country's security, and expressed that Russia does not wish to participate in an arms race. He also noted that Russia's nuclear forces must be prepared and is transitioning its Strategic Missile Forces to new-generation systems with reduced launch preparation times and enhanced capabilities to overcome missile defense systems.