Russia Begins Large-Scale Nuclear Weapons Exercise Amidst Ukraine War

Kathmandu. As the Ukraine war intensifies, Russia has begun a large-scale, three-day nuclear weapons exercise involving thousands of soldiers across the country. This exercise, which comes as Kyiv increases drone attacks and before President Vladimir Putin's visit to China, is seen as a strategically significant signal.

The Russian military announced on Tuesday that the exercise, to be conducted from May 19 to 21, will test the readiness and use of nuclear power in a situation of potential attack threat. According to the Ministry of Defense, this exercise aims to strengthen the country's nuclear capabilities and emergency preparedness.

Russia has repeatedly warned of the use of nuclear weapons during its ongoing invasion of Ukraine for more than four years. The latest exercise comes against that backdrop, with tensions high between Moscow and Western countries.

According to the statement released by the Ministry of Defense, more than 65,000 soldiers will participate in this exercise. In addition, 7,800 types of equipment and weapon systems will be used, including more than 200 missile launch systems. Aircraft, warships, submarines, and nuclear submarines are also said to be participating in the exercise.

Ballistic and cruise missiles will also be tested during this period, which will assess Russia's nuclear deterrence capability and readiness.

According to the ministry, this exercise also includes joint exercises related to nuclear weapons deployed in Belarus. Russia has already deployed the nuclear-capable Iskander missile system in its ally Belarus, which borders NATO.

Meanwhile, this exercise comes months after the expiration of the last major nuclear arms control treaty between Russia and the United States. The collapse of that treaty is considered to have weakened the formal control structure between the world's two largest nuclear powers.

This exercise has been announced amidst recent strong remarks by Putin regarding Moscow's nuclear power. According to analysts, it aims to demonstrate both Russia's military readiness and strategic pressure.

This exercise was announced just hours before President Putin departed for a two-day visit to China, which is also being watched with interest in the international diplomatic context.