The Pentagon affirmed Monday that there have been no alterations in Russia’s strategic nuclear force posture despite Moscow‘s announcement of upcoming military exercises involving the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons.
Russia declared plans for these drills following alleged threats from France, Britain, and the United States, with President Vladimir Putin purportedly ordering them.
The exercises are set to involve missile forces in the Southern Military District, along with aviation and naval components.
U.S. Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, speaking on behalf of the Pentagon, stated that they had not observed any shifts in Russia’s strategic force disposition and emphasized continued monitoring.
Russia’s defense ministry asserted that the exercises, including the deployment of what they term non-strategic nuclear forces, aim to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
However, Russia’s foreign ministry portrayed the drills as a means to temper aggression from Western entities, accusing them of provoking a potential direct military confrontation with NATO.
Ryder criticized Moscow’s remarks as reckless, given the prevailing security environment, and characterized them as inappropriate.
Russia and the United States maintain the largest nuclear arsenals globally, with China, France, and Britain following suit.
The exact count of Russia’s non-strategic nuclear warheads remains uncertain, although estimates place the number around 1,560, as per the Federation of American Scientists.
Despite Russia’s rhetoric and military exercises, the Pentagon emphasizes stability in Russia’s strategic nuclear posture, assuring continued vigilance in monitoring the situation amidst escalating tensions.
