Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the need to keep Russia’s nuclear forces ready and announced a new nuclear training drill. Putin stated that they are conducting another exercise of strategic deterrence forces. Shortly after Putin’s remarks, Russia launched ballistic and cruise missiles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the necessity for Russia to keep its nuclear forces ready by announcing a new nuclear training drill. Putin mentioned that Moscow needs to have its nuclear forces ready for use and indicated that senior officials will review the launching of nuclear ballistic and cruise missiles. In a video clip released by the Kremlin, Putin stated, “Today, we are conducting another exercise of strategic deterrence forces.” He also added that officials would work on actions to control the use of nuclear weapons by launching ballistic and cruise missiles in practice. Putin emphasized that Russia would not engage in any arms race, but Moscow needs to keep its nuclear forces ready for use.

“ALL TARGETS ACHIEVED”

According to Interfax news agency, shortly after Putin’s statements, Russia launched ballistic and cruise missiles within the context of the nuclear drill.

Moreover, according to RIA, Moscow reported that all targets were achieved in the drills. TASS news agency reported that Russian Defense Minister Andret Belusov stated, “Forces conducted a mass nuclear strike test in response to an enemy attack.”

The Kremlin noted that the nuclear drill was considered “routine.”