[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the start of strategic nuclear exercises, including ballistic missile launches, on the 19th (local time), according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, as reported by major foreign media.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded "Yes" when asked if the exercises had begun. President Putin is expected to observe the exercises.
Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced the day before that "under the leadership of President Putin, the strategic deterrent forces will conduct nuclear force exercises on the 19th, including ballistic missile and cruise missile launch tests." It added, "The exercises involve the Aerospace Forces, Southern Military District, Strategic Missile Forces, Northern Fleet, Black Sea Fleet, and other troops and equipment."
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