Putin launches drills of Russia’s nuclear forces simulating retaliatory strikes

A Yars intercontinental ballistic missile is test-fired from the Plesetsk launchpad in northwestern Russia (Russian Defence Ministry Press Service via AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has launched a massive exercise of the country’s nuclear forces featuring missile launches in a simulation of a retaliatory strike, as he continued to flex the country’s nuclear muscle amid spiralling tensions with the West over Ukraine.

Speaking in a video call with military leaders, Mr Putin said that the drills will simulate top officials’ action in using nuclear weapons and include launches of nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles.