NATO to launch annual nuclear exercise amid Russian tensions
NATO is set to commence its annual nuclear exercise, Steadfast Noon, next week, according to alliance leader Mark Rutte, who made the announcement on Friday as tensions with Russia have escalated following a series of incursions by Russian aircraft.In a video shared online, Rutte pointed out that the two-week exercise, which begins on Monday, is a routine event, and NATO has clarified that it is not directly related to Russia's recent actions.
Rutte underlined the significance of this exercise for preserving the alliance’s defense capabilities.
He elaborated on the need for the drill, stating, “This is essential to ensure that our nuclear deterrent remains credible, safe, secure, and effective.”
Additionally, he emphasized the strategic communication being conveyed to potential adversaries: “It also sends a clear message to any possible opponent that we are prepared to protect and defend all allies against any threats.”
As reported by NATO officials, the exercise— which will not include live nuclear weapons—will involve around 70 aircraft and 2,000 personnel from 13 member states. Operations are planned to take place from airbases located in the Netherlands, Belgium, Britain, and Denmark, with much of the activity concentrated in the North Sea area.
This war game follows a series of unidentified drones that have disrupted airports and have been spotted near military installations across several NATO nations, including Denmark. US Colonel Daniel Bunch, who leads NATO’s nuclear operations, addressed the drone situation by saying, “Drones are not a new threat for us. We have a solid understanding of drones.”
He recognized the increased need for vigilance due to recent events, noting, “The more frequent incursions are certainly something we are monitoring closely.”
This upcoming exercise marks the latest in a series hosted by NATO as Russia has increased its nuclear rhetoric since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Jim Stokes, NATO’s director of nuclear policy, shared the alliance’s evaluation of Russia’s current nuclear posture, stating, “Allies have not observed any alterations in Russia’s nuclear stance.”
He also assured that monitoring efforts
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