In the aftermath of France and the United Kingdom's public criticism of Russia's actions in Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry has announced its intention to conduct drills involving nuclear weapons.
These drills will simulate the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield, a practice Russia has previously engaged in but has not publicly announced to this extent.
The decision to conduct these drills was made in response to what the Russian Defense Ministry referred to as "provocative statements and threats" from certain Western officials regarding Russia.
These statements include French President Emmanuel Macron's suggestion that French troops could be sent to support Ukraine and the United Kingdom's Foreign Secretary's remarks on Ukraine's ability to launch long-range missile attacks on Russia.
The use of tactical nuclear weapons by Russia has long been a concern for the United States and other Western countries.
These drills follow the United States' recent approval of additional aid to Ukraine, aimed at bolstering Ukrainian troops in the conflict.
With Russia seemingly gearing up for a potential summer offensive in Ukraine, the situation remains fluid and is being closely monitored by international observers.