Russian forces have initiated military drills near Ukraine, simulating the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons.
This move comes in response to perceived threats from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and their allies.
The situation is further complicated by increased Western involvement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
President Vladimir Putin ordered these drills earlier this month as a warning to the West against further escalation.
The French President, Emmanuel Macron, had raised the possibility of sending European troops to fight Russia in Ukraine, which particularly angered Russia.
Additionally, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s statement that Ukraine had the right to use weapons supplied by London to target sites in Russia added fuel to the fire.
The Russian defense ministry released footage on Tuesday, revealing trucks transporting missiles to a field where launch systems were prepared.
Troops at an airfield were also seen readying a bomber to carry a nuclear warhead. These exercises are taking place in Russia’s southern military district, headquartered in Rostov-on-Don, which shares a border with Ukraine and includes parts of the country currently occupied by Russia.
The drills represent the first stage, involving the loading of launch vehicles, driving to launch sites, and loading planes with hypersonic Kinzhal missiles.
As tensions continue to rise, the situation remains closely monitored by the international community.
