In a video call with military leaders, Putin says that the exercises will simulate high-ranking officials' actions in the event of nuclear weapons use and will include launches of nuclear-capable ballistic missiles and cruise missiles.
Defense Minister Andrej Belousov states that the intention is to practice a scenario with "strategic offensive forces carrying out a comprehensive nuclear attack in response to a nuclear attack from the enemy".
Putin emphasizes that Russia's nuclear arsenal remains a "reliable guarantee for the country's sovereignty and security".
Given the growing geopolitical tensions and new threats and risks, it is important for us to have modern strategic forces that are always ready for battle, says Putin.
Putin adds that Moscow will continue to modernize its nuclear forces and deploy new missiles with higher precision, faster launch times, and increased ability to overcome missile defense.