Russia Plans Tactical Nuclear Drills After Macron’s Remarks, Slams “Unprecedented” Western Actions

On May 6, Russia said its General Staff had launched preparations for a military exercise, including tactical nuclear weapons training. The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) said the exercise was ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The drills were in response to “provocative statements and threats of certain Western officials regarding the Russian Federation,” said the Russian MoD. Russia said the military drills will include practice for the preparation and deployment for use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. Missile formations in the Southern Military District and naval forces will also take part in the drills, as per the Russian MoD.