Russia starts exercise to simulate launch of tactical nuclear weapons

Russian military vehicles are seen during the first stage of drills, involving practical training in the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, at an unknown location in Russia's Southern Military District, in this still image taken from video released May 21, 2024. Russian Defence Ministry/Handout via REUTERS

(Reuters) -Russian forces have started the first stage of exercises ordered by President Vladimir Putin to simulate preparation for the launch of tactical nuclear weapons, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.

Moscow has linked the exercises to what it calls "militant statements" by Western officials, including French President Emmanuel Macron, which it said created security threats for Russia.