Russia Flexes Military Power in Nuclear, Conventional Drills Amid NATO Tensions

Russia has staged large-scale military exercises showcasing both conventional and nuclear capabilities, further straining its already tense relationship with NATO allies.

The drills, which included advanced missile systems and strategic bombers, were presented by Moscow as a demonstration of readiness against perceived Western threats. Military analysts say the exercises serve a dual purpose: projecting strength to foreign adversaries while reinforcing domestic narratives of resilience against external pressure.

The show of force comes as NATO increases its own defense measures in Eastern Europe, citing repeated violations of airspace and heightened cross-border incidents linked to Russia’s military operations. Officials warn that the drills risk fueling escalation in an already volatile security environment.

Moscow insists the exercises are routine and defensive, but Western leaders view them as a deliberate move to intimidate neighboring states and test NATO’s response.

The display highlights deepening fault lines in global security, with analysts cautioning that both sides’ actions could push Europe closer to a new era of confrontation.