Russia has recently conducted a rehearsal of its ability to deliver a “massive” nuclear strike, causing significant global concern. The military exercise, which was carried out as a response to an enemy nuclear strike, was reported to President Vladimir Putin by Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. This event coincides with Russia’s withdrawal from the global treaty that prohibits physical testing of nuclear warheads, a move that has raised alarms worldwide.
During the exercise, practical launches of both ballistic and cruise missiles were conducted. One of the intercontinental ballistic missiles, known as Yars, was fired from a test site in Russia’s far-east, while another missile was fired from a nuclear-powered submarine in the Barents Sea. The defence ministry released footage of the tests, showcasing Russia’s nuclear capabilities to the world.
This display of force comes after President Putin announced a successful final test of a nuclear-powered cruise missile earlier this month. Introduced in 2018, this experimental weapon was touted as having an unlimited range, although its capabilities have not been independently verified. The combination of Russia’s nuclear weapons advancements and the withdrawal from the international nuclear test ban treaty has raised concerns over the potential escalation of nuclear tensions.
The decision to withdraw from the treaty was backed by Russia’s parliament, following the United States’ example. The Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), agreed upon in 1996, forbids any nuclear weapon or explosion worldwide. However, as the US signed but never ratified the treaty, Mr. Putin called upon his ministers to support this change to mirror the US position.
Russia’s recent actions are also seen in the context of the country’s invasion of Ukraine last year. The full-scale invasion raised fears of nuclear warfare, highlighting the severity of the situation. Moreover, Russia has stationed tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, which has further intensified concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons if Russia’s territory or state is threatened.
It is crucial to note that the US government has not seen any indication that Russia intends to use nuclear weapons to attack Ukraine. Nevertheless, the recent actions by Russia, including the nuclear strike rehearsal and the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons, have sparked international alarm. The escalating tensions in the region and the potential for a nuclear confrontation demand careful attention and diplomatic efforts to prevent a catastrophic outcome.
