Warning to the West? Russia Holds One of Its Largest Nuclear Drills Ever with 64,000 Personnel

Večernji List reports on a significant escalation in Russian military posturing, as Moscow launches one of its largest nuclear exercises in recent memory. The drills, encompassing 64,000 personnel and extending across Russia and Belarus, are framed by the Kremlin as a necessary response to perceived aggression from Western NATO members, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and drone activity in the Baltic region. President Vladimir Putin's accompanying statements, emphasizing nuclear weapon use as a "last resort" while simultaneously showcasing strategic nuclear forces, underscore the gravity of the situation. For Croatia and the wider Balkan region, which has direct experience with the devastating consequences of conflict, such displays of nuclear readiness are deeply concerning. While Russia portrays these exercises as defensive deterrence, the international community, including many European nations, views them as dangerous saber-rattling that increases the risk of miscalculation. The inclusion of Belarus in these drills further complicates the geopolitical landscape, drawing a neighboring nation deeper into Russia's security orbit and raising alarms about regional stability. The exercises serve as a stark reminder of the precarious security environment and the potential for escalation, a reality that demands careful monitoring and diplomatic engagement.

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nuclear weapon use is a 'last resort'