MOSCOW — On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated a significant exercise involving the nation’s nuclear forces, which included practice missile launches. This development reflects Russia’s attempts to assert its nuclear capabilities amid escalating tensions with Western nations over the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

During a video conference with military officials, Putin detailed that the drills aim to simulate the response of high-ranking officials in scenarios involving the use of nuclear weapons. The exercises comprise practice launches of both nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles.

In his address, Putin highlighted that Russia’s nuclear arsenal serves as a vital safeguard for the nation’s sovereignty and security. He underlined the necessity of maintaining modern strategic forces that are always prepared for combat, particularly given the rising geopolitical tensions and new risks that have emerged.

He reiterated that Russia perceives the use of nuclear weapons as the ultimate measure for ensuring its security. Furthermore, Putin acknowledged that there will be ongoing enhancements to the nuclear forces, which include the deployment of new missile systems designed for improved precision, rapid launch capabilities, and features that make them more adept at penetrating missile defense systems.

Last month, Putin cautioned both the United States and NATO allies that providing Ukraine with Western-supplied long-range weaponry, which could target deep within Russian territory, would escalate NATO into conflict with Russia.

Additionally, he reinforced this warning through a newly announced nuclear doctrine. The revised doctrine recognizes a conventional attack on Russia, supported by a nuclear state, as a coordinated assault on the nation, signaling a stern message to the U.S. and its allies supporting Ukraine.

Putin also specified that the updated doctrine incorporates the possibility of utilizing nuclear weapons in response to a substantial air attack, thereby leaving the option for a nuclear response to any aerial threats open—a strategic ambiguity aimed at discouraging Western actions.

This recent set of drills follows a series of earlier exercises conducted by Russia’s nuclear forces. Earlier in the year, the Russian military engaged in a joint nuclear exercise with Belarus, an ally that has also hosted some of Russia’s tactical nuclear arms.