Moscow - In a bid to prepare for potential nuclear conflict, Russia is set to hold its first nationwide drill simulating widespread nuclear strikes on the country.
Russia has been preparing for drills on October 3 for the last few days, Newsweek reported. As part of the operation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly been “urged” to test the atomic bomb.
The exercise, which will take place over the course of a day, is based on the assumption that NATO will launch a nuclear attack on Russia, resulting in the destruction of 70 percent of Russian housing and life-support facilities. The drill will also focus on modeling the secondary threats posed by damage to nuclear power plants and other critical infrastructure.
According to a preparatory document, the exercise aims to prepare authorities for an escalation of war, including the possibility of a global conflict involving nuclear powers. State and regional authorities have been tasked with organizing emergency rescue teams to provide essential supplies such as food, medical aid, and protection against radiation in the event of a nuclear strike.
The exercise will also involve the relocation of the population from areas deemed life-threatening, with a process similar to the one seen during the Chernobyl disaster. This internal population transfer is expected to be on an unprecedented scale, underscoring the seriousness with which Russia is approaching the potential threat of a nuclear conflict.
Russian President Vladimir Putin himself is reportedly taking precautions, moving to one of his nuclear bunkers located throughout the country. In the event of a real nuclear war, Putin has access to a fleet of "Doomsday" Il-80 Maxdome aircraft that can serve as an air control center.
It is noteworthy that this exercise is scheduled to take place just four days before Putin's 71st birthday, adding a symbolic significance to the event. While the drill is primarily seen as a training exercise for nuclear war, it is worth mentioning that preparations for a nuclear explosion test in the Arctic Circle are also underway.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Soygu visited Novaya Zemlya in August, signaling the potential resumption of nuclear tests after a hiatus of several decades. This move has raised concerns among international observers, as it reflects the growing tension between Russia and NATO.
As the geopolitical landscape becomes increasingly volatile, both Russia and NATO are taking measures to enhance their defense capabilities. This nationwide drill serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of a nuclear conflict and highlights the need for continued dialogue and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.
Russia's decision to conduct a nationwide drill simulating widespread nuclear strikes underscores the country's commitment to preparedness in the face of potential nuclear conflict. While the exercise serves as a training opportunity, it also highlights the need for international cooperation to prevent such catastrophic scenarios from becoming a reality.
As tensions between Russia and NATO continue to rise, analysts find it imperative that diplomatic efforts take precedence to ensure global stability and security.