Russian Troops Conduct Nuclear Drills Amid Tensions with the West
On June 13, 2024, Russia conducted drills involving the deployment of dummy nuclear warheads, ordered by President Vladimir Putin in response to perceived Western threats. These exercises took place in southern Russia, near Ukraine, and included troops from the Leningrad military district, along with mobile missile launchers, the air force, and navy personnel. The drills were coordinated by Russia’s 12 Main Directorate, which handles the country's nuclear arsenal.
The United States and its European allies have been accused by Russia of escalating tensions through the supply of advanced weapons to Ukraine. Notably, footage from the drills showed Russian sailors simulating a countdown and launch. In a parallel development, Russia's navy dispatched a frigate and a nuclear submarine to Havana, Cuba, promoting a cautious stance by U.S. officials, who nonetheless found no evidence of missile transfers.
These activities underscore the significant nuclear capabilities of both Russia and the United States, which together hold 88% of the world's nuclear weapons.