NATO, Russia to hold nuclear exercises amid tensions

The Pentagon and U.S. intelligence agencies are keeping an eye out for unexpected or unusual movements of nuclear weapons in Moscow during Russian exercises scheduled to take place by the end of this month, according to several U.S. officials. there is

A senior defense official told CNN: “I think Russia’s nuclear rhetoric and decision to proceed with this exercise during its war with Ukraine is irresponsible. It is irresponsible to brandish nuclear weapons to intimidate the United States and its allies.” said.

The Russian exercise, called Grom, loosely translates to lightning, is conducted annually, according to the US. “We expect the exercise to last several days. It will include actions within the normal range of what Russia has done in the past,” said strategic coordinator John Kirby. It will include launches and the deployment of strategic assets.” Correspondence at the National Security Council.

He added: “I don’t think there is such a thing as the ability to (use) tactical nuclear weapons without easily going to Armageddon.”

After Biden’s remarks, administration officials stressed that they have yet to see evidence that Putin intends to use Russia’s nuclear capabilities, nor have there been any information indicating that Putin has decided to do so. did.

Tensions over Ukraine mean more scrutiny of Russia’s exercises. While the U.S. constantly monitors Russia’s nuclear assets, the Pentagon monitors exercises for routine and unexpected movements of Russia’s strategic forces and nuclear weapons, officials said on CNN. told to

The exercise is expected to focus on strategic weapons, which means testing ballistic missile systems for which Russia is required to give advance notice under its treaty obligations.

NATO and US officials say they are confident they will be able to accurately monitor Russia’s nuclear activity during the exercise. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said last Thursday, “We will keep an eye on it as usual. And of course, the veiled nuclear threat and dangerous nuclear rhetoric seen from the Russian side. In light of this, we will remain particularly vigilant,” he said.

On Monday, NATO will begin its annual nuclear exercise known as Steadfast Noon, with the United States among the 14 participating nations. According to the Pentagon, this he has implemented annually for more than a decade.

The exercises include fighter aircraft capable of carrying nuclear warheads, but not live-fire weapons. The United States will provide B-52 bombers flying from Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota. The main exercise area is over 1000 km from Russia. The goal is to ensure that NATO’s nuclear deterrent remains “reliable, effective, safe and secure.”

According to NATO, up to 60 aircraft will be involved, including modern fighters, reconnaissance planes and tankers. The flights will take place in Belgium, the UK and the North Sea.