Russia conducted a large-scale nuclear readiness exercise on Wednesday, responding to the abrupt postponement of a high-profile summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The drills included test launches of advanced Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, a Sineva submarine-launched missile in the Barents Sea, and nuclear-capable cruise missiles fired from Tu-95MS strategic bombers.
Kremlin officials confirmed all systems performed as planned, calling the exercise a 'routine demonstration of strategic deterrence capabilities.' Analysts suggest the timing underscores Moscow's intent to project strength amid strained relations with NATO, which recently expanded military exercises near Russia's western borders.
The postponed summit, initially framed as an opportunity to discuss arms control and regional security, had drawn international attention following Trump's controversial remarks about recognizing Crimea as Russian territory. While Washington cited scheduling conflicts for the delay, Moscow's swift military response highlights the fragile state of U.S.-Russia diplomacy.
Defense experts note the drill's inclusion of multiple delivery systems – land, sea, and air – reflects Russia's updated nuclear doctrine emphasizing survivable second-strike capabilities. The Yars missile system, capable of carrying multiple warheads over 11,000 kilometers, remains central to Russia's ground-based nuclear arsenal.
