Russia’s military has commenced drills involving tactical nuclear weapons, marking a significant escalation in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and signalling a stern warning to Western officials. This development follows earlier announcements by Russian authorities, emphasizing the nation’s readiness to respond to what it perceives as growing threats from the West.
The Defense Ministry released a statement on May 21 detailing the initial stage of the drills, which include “practical training in the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons.” These exercises feature nuclear-capable Kinzhal and Iskander missiles and are taking place in the Southern Military District. This district includes Russian regions bordering Ukraine, Crimea, which was annexed from Ukraine in 2014, and four Ukrainian regions that Russia unlawfully annexed in 2022.
This is the first instance of Russia publicly announcing drills specifically focused on tactical nuclear weapons, although its strategic nuclear forces regularly conduct exercises. Tactical nuclear weapons, designed for battlefield use, are less powerful than strategic weapons and include air bombs, warheads for short-range missiles, and artillery munitions.
The timing of these drills follows recent provocative statements by Western officials. French President Emmanuel Macron suggested the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine, while U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that Kiev’s forces could use British long-range weapons to strike targets inside Russia. The Kremlin has condemned these comments, describing them as dangerous and contributing to heightened tensions between Russia and NATO.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized on May 6 that these remarks from Western leaders had prompted the nuclear drills, calling them “a new round of escalation.” This move underscores Russia’s resolve to demonstrate its military capabilities in response to perceived threats.
Adding to the tensions, Russia launched a fresh assault on Kharkiv on May 10, capturing several small settlements in what has been its most significant advance in 18 months. This aggressive action further complicates the already volatile situation in the region.