Russia Launches Large-Scale Nuclear Drills Amid Rising Tensions

Russia has begun three days of large-scale nuclear weapons drills involving more than 65,000 troops, 7,800 pieces of equipment, and 200 missile launchers. The exercises, scheduled from May 19 to 21, 2026, will test ballistic and cruise missiles and involve aircraft, ships, and submarines, including nuclear submarines. The drills come amid heightened tensions with NATO, with a senior Russian diplomat warning of a growing risk of 'catastrophic' conflict. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS that escalating tensions and 'blatantly provocative actions in the nuclear sphere' are increasing the danger of a direct clash between Russia and NATO. The exercises also follow the collapse of the New START nuclear arms treaty between Russia and the U.S., which formally ended in February. President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the development of Russia's nuclear forces as a 'priority,' and Moscow recently tested a new long-range missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The drills will also involve joint training with Belarus, where Russia has deployed a nuclear-capable missile system. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of preparing a new offensive from Belarus and ordered reinforcements along Ukraine's northern border.