Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons near Ukraine's border, according to multiple sources. The exercises come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West over Ukraine and other issues.
Putin's decision to initiate the drills was reported by several news outlets, including Politico EU, The Hill, and The Guardian. According to these reports, Russian troops are practicing loading vehicles with Iskander ballistic missiles and driving them to designated areas. Aviation personnel are also training in equipping Kinzhal hypersonic missiles onto fighter jets and flying them to designated zones.
The drills come as Western officials have expressed concern over Russia's military activities near Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron has floated the possibility of sending European troops to fight in Ukraine, while UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron has said that Ukraine has the right to use weapons supplied by London to target sites in Russia.
Putin previously threatened to use nuclear weapons if Western allies came to the aid of Ukraine. He also moved tactical nuclear weapons closer to NATO territory last year and rescinded Russia's signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which prohibits testing nuclear bombs.
The drills are taking place in Russia's southern military district, which includes parts of the country that border Ukraine and occupied territories. The first stage of practical testing for tactical nuclear weapons is reportedly underway in this region.
It is important to note that these reports come from various sources, some of which may have biases or agendas. It is crucial to approach all information with a critical and unbiased mindset and verify facts from multiple reliable sources before drawing any conclusions.