Putin observes drills by Russia’s strategic nuclear forces

Russian President Vladimir Putin has monitored drills of the country’s strategic nuclear forces involving multiple practice launches of ballistic and cruise missiles, in a show of force amid the heightened tensions with the West over the conflict in Ukraine.

Wednesday’s drills come amid a series of escalatory comments from Moscow and Putin – who observed the drills from a control room – suggesting the eight-month conflict in Ukraine could turn nuclear.

“Under the leadership of … Vladimir Putin, a training session was held with ground, sea and air strategic deterrence...