Russia begins nuclear drills by land, sea and air

Russia has initiated a large-scale manoeuvre of its strategic nuclear forces, running parallel to an ongoing NATO nuclear exercise in Europe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed on Wednesday that it was a scheduled military exercise, which he ordered to commence via video link.

According to the Kremlin, the exercise is taking place by land, sea and air.

Intercontinental ballistic missiles of the type Yars were launched from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia, the Kremlin website said.

The nuclear submarine Bryansk also launched a missile in the Barents Sea. Additionally, strategic bombers Tu-95 fired cruise missiles.

Moscow did not provide information on the number of weapon systems deployed.

Nuclear power Russia invaded Ukraine more than three and a half years ago and has been at war in the neighbouring country ever since.

During this time, Putin has repeatedly highlighted the potential of Russian nuclear weapons, also to deter the West from providing stronger support to Kiev.

NATO exercise still under way

NATO began its Steadfast Noon exercise to practice defending the alliance’s territory with nuclear weapons just over a week ago.

Around 2,000 soldiers and approximately 70 aircraft are participating. The exercise, which is mainly taking place over the North Sea, is expected to last two weeks.