Russia launches massive nuclear drills as Putin heads to China

The Russian Ministry of Defence has announced that its armed forces commenced three-day nuclear force exercises from 19 to 21 May 2026. The drills, which began on Tuesday, involve more than 65,000 troops and 7,800 types of equipment and weapons. According to the ministry, the exercises are designed for the "preparation and use of nuclear forces in the event of a threat of aggression."

The scale of the operation includes over 200 missile launchers, alongside aircraft, ships, and submarines. The ministry confirmed that the drills will feature test-launches of both ballistic and cruise missiles. A significant component of the exercise addresses joint training and the use of nuclear weapons deployed on the territory of the Republic of Belarus.

Russia has deployed the nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile to Belarus, a Russian ally that shares a border with NATO member states. The involvement of Belarusian forces in these drills highlights the deepening military integration between the two nations, particularly as Moscow continues its offensive in Ukraine, which has now lasted more than four years.

The announcement of the drills came hours before President Vladimir Putin arrived in China for a two-day visit. The timing follows a recent summit between President Trump and President Xi, with reports indicating that Putin’s trip aims to reinforce ties between Moscow and Beijing amidst shifting geopolitical alliances.

These exercises occur in the wake of the formal ending of the New START agreement with Washington in February 2026. The expiration of the pact released the two largest nuclear powers from previous restrictions on their arsenals. The drills also coincide with Kyiv escalating drone attacks and recent comments from President Putin touting Moscow's atomic capabilities.