The Russian army on Tuesday began three-day nuclear military exercises involving thousands of troops across the country, amid intensified Ukrainian drone attacks, while President Vladimir Putin started an official visit to China.

The Russian Ministry of Defence said the armed forces are conducting drills from May 19 to May 21, 2026, focused on preparing nuclear forces and their use in case of a perceived threat of aggression.

It added that the exercises involve more than 64,000 personnel and 7,800 pieces of military equipment, including the launch of ballistic and cruise missiles from test sites inside Russian territory.