Russia commences second phase of tactical nuclear drills

The Russian Ministry of Defence announced that the second stage of exercises involving the use of non-strategic nuclear forces has begun. The manoeuvres aim to "maintain the readiness of the troops and equipment of the combat units" of Russia and Belarus.

During the manoeuvres, as reported by the Russian Ministry of Defence, joint preparation of the armed forces units of Russia and Belarus for the "combat use of non-strategic nuclear weapons" will be practised.

The statement emphasized that the exercises are meant to maintain the readiness of soldiers and combat equipment for the use of tactical nuclear weapons "to unconditionally guarantee the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Union State."

As part of the first stage of the manoeuvres, soldiers of the missile troops from the Southern Military District of Russia practised receiving training missiles for the Iskander systems, mounting them on rockets, and "secretly moving them to designated areas in preparation for firing." Additionally, Air Force soldiers conducted similar operations with Kinzhal missiles launched from aircraft.

Vladimir Putin commissioned the maneuvers last month. Moscow claims this is its response to threats and provocations from the West.

According to analysts at the Defence24.pl portal, manoeuvres involving the use of tactical nuclear weapons serve both to verify Russian capabilities and to intimidate the West to limit support for Ukraine.