Russian forces have begun the first stage of military exercises, "including practical training in the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons" ; in the Southern Military District. This was reported by Reuters, citing the Russian Ministry of Defense.
The department specifies that the first stage of the exercise includes "Iskander" missiles. and "Dagger".
It aims to ensure the readiness of units and equipment for the combat use of non-strategic nuclear weapons to respond and unconditionally ensure the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Russian state in response to provocative statements and threats of individual Western officials against the Russian Federation, indicated by the Ministry of War.
The president of the country, Vladimir Putin, gave an order earlier this month for the drills to be held.