Russia has completed a large-scale nuclear forces exercise involving tens of thousands of troops, missile systems, submarines, and aircraft, according to the country’s defense ministry.
The drills took place from May 19 to May 21 as tensions with Ukraine continued to grow and President Vladimir Putin traveled to China for high-level talks.
The exercise also highlighted Moscow’s growing focus on nuclear readiness after the collapse of its last major arms agreement with the US.
Russia Drills Large-Scale Nuclear Forces Exercise
The exercise involved more than 65,000 military personnel and around 7,800 types of military equipment and weapons. Officials said the drills focused on preparing nuclear forces in case of what Moscow described as a threat of aggression.
The operation included missile launchers, military aircraft, warships, submarines, and nuclear submarines. Russia also tested ballistic and cruise missiles during the exercise. Ballistic missiles are designed to travel long distances at high speed, while cruise missiles fly lower and can change direction during flight.
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The drills were conducted across several parts of Russia and included coordination with Belarus. Moscow said the exercise also covered the use of nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus. Russia previously deployed its nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system to the country, which borders several NATO members.
Ukraine War and NATO Tensions Shape Russia’s Strategy
The military exercise came as Ukraine increased drone attacks on Russian territory in recent weeks. Since the start of the war in Ukraine more than four years ago, Russia has repeatedly pointed to its nuclear capabilities. Russian officials have often used nuclear messaging as part of their broader military and political strategy.
The timing of the drills also drew attention because they coincided with President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China. Putin traveled to Beijing for a two-day meeting to strengthen economic and strategic ties between the two countries. China remains one of Russia’s most important international partners as Moscow faces continued pressure from Western nations.
Russia’s defense ministry said more than 200 missile launchers took part in the exercise. The drills were among the largest nuclear readiness exercises announced by Moscow in recent years. Military analysts see such exercises as a signal to both NATO and Ukraine amid rising global security tensions.
End of New START Raises Global Concerns
The exercise followed the collapse of the New START treaty between Russia and the US earlier this year. The agreement had placed limits on the number of deployed nuclear warheads and delivery systems for both countries. Its end removed key restrictions on the world’s two largest nuclear powers.
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Without the treaty, both countries now have fewer formal checks on nuclear weapons deployments and inspections.
Security experts have warned that the breakdown of arms control agreements increases uncertainty between major powers. It also raises concerns about a renewed global nuclear arms race.
Russia has continued to modernize its nuclear arsenal while expanding military cooperation with Belarus. The Kremlin says its nuclear forces are meant to protect national security and deter outside threats.
The latest drills show that nuclear readiness remains a key part of Russia’s military planning as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
