On Wednesday, Russia announced the start of the third phase of its strategic nuclear exercises. The drills will take place in central and southern regions, the North Caucasus, and Crimea, which was annexed by Russia, as well as in the southern and eastern regions of Ukraine, according to the Defense Ministry.
The exercises come amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The first and second phases of the nuclear drills were conducted earlier this year, but details about their scope and objectives were not disclosed.
The latest round of exercises is expected to involve various branches of the Russian military, including the Strategic Missile Forces, which are responsible for the country’s land-based nuclear arsenal. The drills will likely include simulated launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles and other nuclear-capable weapons.
The announcement of the third phase of the strategic nuclear exercises underscores Russia’s commitment to maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent and its willingness to flex its military muscle in the face of Western pressure over Ukraine. However, experts caution that such exercises, particularly during times of heightened tensions, can increase the risk of miscalculation and escalation.
