The Russian Defense Ministry said on July 31 it has begun the "final, third stage" of tactical nuclear missile drills with the involvement of the Central and Southern Military Districts. The exercises started in late May. The ministry said at the time that the goal was to increase the readiness of tactical nuclear forces near the Ukrainian border. In the first two stages, Russia's Leningrad and Southern military districts, as well Belarusian armed forces, participated in the drills. Russia has said that it has placed tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Plans for the drills were announced on May 6. To read the original story by RFE/RL’s Russian Service, click here.
Russia Starts 'Final Stage' Of Tactical Nuclear Weapons Drill
A Russian Iskander-K missile is launched during a military exercise in Russia. (file photo)