In response to provocative statements and threats from Western officials, Russia has initiated tactical nuclear drills near Ukraine. These exercises, involving the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons such as the Kinzhal and Iskander missiles, are being conducted in the Southern Military District, which includes regions bordering Ukraine, Crimea (annexed in 2014), and Ukrainian territories partially occupied by Russia since 2022.
The drills were announced by the Russian Defense Ministry earlier this month as a direct response to remarks made by leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron regarding potential deeper involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. The Kremlin labeled these comments as dangerous, leading to heightened tensions between Russia and NATO.
Tactical nuclear weapons differ from strategic ones in that they are designed for battlefield use against limited targets with lower yields. This recent move by Russia marks the first time it has publicly announced exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons, signaling a clear warning of its willingness to escalate the situation in Ukraine.
The exercises come amidst ongoing concerns about Western intervention in support of Ukraine’s military efforts against Russian forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for increased NATO involvement and access to American weaponry for use against Russian forces on Russian territory. However, fears of nuclear escalation have been downplayed by Zelensky, who believes that Putin values his own life enough to avoid irrational actions.
These drills serve as a stark reminder of Russia’s capability and willingness to utilize nuclear weapons in the conflict with Ukraine, raising international alarm about the potential consequences of further escalation.