Russia and Belarus hold joint nuclear drills as Putin calls nuclear use an emergency security measure

Russia and Belarus conducted joint nuclear weapons exercises from May 19‑21, with President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko observing via videoconference. Putin said the nuclear triad remains a reliable guarantor of the Russian‑Belarusian Union’s sovereignty and described the use of nuclear weapons as an "extraordinary measure" for the country’s security.

The drills focused on the practical launch of ballistic and cruise missiles and on training units in the combat use of nuclear weapons, with preparatory activities beginning in Belarus on May 18. Putin added that Russia operates according to a planned strategy and is not engaged in an arms race, while noting progress in developing its nuclear capabilities.