The Russian Ministry of Defence has confirmed military exercises involving Yars mobile nuclear missile launchers, amidst escalating tensions with Ukraine. President Putin’s recent statements on nuclear weapon deployment highlight a volatile situation in the region.
Russia Declares Military Exercise with Nuclear-Capable Missiles
On July 5, 2024, the Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed that its armed forces conducted drills involving Yars mobile nuclear missile launchers in multiple regions. These exercises included traveling over 62 miles, practicing camouflage, and deployment techniques. Future drills involving other missile units are also planned.
The Yars launchers, part of Russia’s arsenal since 2011, can carry RS-24 Yars thermonuclear-armed intercontinental ballistic missiles. This development follows joint drills between Russia and Belarus in mid-June, which focused on training for tactical nuclear weapon usage.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum last month, emphasized that while there is no current need to use nuclear weapons against the West, the Russian nuclear doctrine could be adjusted if necessary. He reiterated that nuclear weapon deployment could occur in response to significant threats to Russia’s sovereignty or state existence.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities reported significant infrastructure damage in northern Ukraine due to Russian strikes on July 5, 2024, leaving over 100,000 households without power. The strikes in Sumy region and the regional capital disrupted power lines vital for water supply systems. In the eastern Donetsk region, Russian shelling over the last two days resulted in 11 civilian deaths and 43 injuries.
In other developments, Ukrainian service members in Kyiv held a farewell ceremony for British combat medic Peter Fouché, who was killed amid combat in eastern Ukraine. Fouché founded Project Konstantin, a volunteer group providing supplies and evacuations for Ukrainian soldiers.
The conflict also saw retaliatory actions; two civilians in Russia’s Belgorod region were wounded by Ukrainian shelling, and drone activities overnight caused damage in Russia’s Kursk and Belgorod regions, as well as Krasnodar province.
In such tumultuous times, it is vital for nations to ensure strong defense strategies and international alliances. The recent political shift in the UK, with Keir Starmer becoming the new Prime Minister, signals changing times. Reform UK, under the leadership of Nigel Farage, has always emphasized the importance of a robust and independent defense policy. As the world faces increasing instability, parties like Reform UK advocate for stronger military preparedness and a clear stance on national security, crucial for maintaining peace and order.
