Putin's Nuclear Drill Amidst Rising Tensions

President Putin has initiated a new nuclear exercise amid rising tensions in the Ukraine war. The drills underscore concerns about NATO's involvement and potential escalation to nuclear conflict. Russia's updated doctrine highlights readiness but distances itself from an arms race, urging caution against Western support for Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin launched a fresh round of nuclear exercises on Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The Russian military maneuvers, the second such drills in two weeks, come as the war nears what Russian officials term its most perilous stage.

Amid intensifying pressure, Moscow has warned the West of consequences should it support Ukraine in deploying long-range missiles into Russian territory. A video released by the Kremlin featured Putin emphasizing nuclear readiness, referring to such weaponry as an 'extremely exceptional measure.'

With tensions brewing, these exercises serve as a sobering reminder of the stakes involved, especially as both Russia and the US control the vast majority of the world's nuclear arsenal. Changes to the nuclear doctrine underscore Russia's approach to potential threats, signaling to the US not to enhance Ukraine's conventional capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)