The Russian Defense Ministry has declared its intention to conduct military exercises that will simulate the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons.
This announcement was made on Monday through an official statement posted on the social media platform Telegram.
According to the ministry, the purpose of these drills is to improve the preparedness of Russia's non-strategic nuclear forces to carry out combat missions.
The exercises will involve missile units from the Southern Military District, as well as elements of the country's air and naval forces.
The ministry emphasized that the drills are designed to maintain "the readiness of personnel" and "the combat readiness of non-strategic nuclear weapons units."
They aim to safeguard Russia’s "territorial integrity and sovereignty," according to the statement.
The exercises are a response to what the ministry describes as "provocative statements and threats by certain Western officials" directed at Russia.
While the exact date for the drills was not disclosed, the statement noted that they would take place "in the near future" and are being organized under the directives of President Vladimir Putin.
Further details about the exercises have yet to be released.
