Russia announced on Wednesday that it conducted a major nuclear weapons training exercise, shortly after the U. S. postponed a planned summit between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. The Kremlin shared videos of General Valery Gerasimov updating Putin on the drills, which included test launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of striking the U. S. Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin has often reminded both Kyiv and its Western allies of Russia’s nuclear capabilities. Meanwhile, NATO also conducted its own nuclear deterrent exercises.
Putin and Trump had recently discussed a potential summit in Hungary, expected within a few weeks, but following a Monday call between the U. S. and Russian diplomats, Trump declared no immediate plans to meet Putin, emphasizing the desire to avoid “wasted meetings. ” Russian officials, however, asserted that preparations for a summit are still underway, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noting that while specific dates are not set, comprehensive preparation is necessary.
The delay came after Russia reiterated its terms for a peace agreement, demanding Ukraine cede control of the southeastern Donbas region. This stance contradicted Trump’s suggestion that both sides should maintain their current front lines. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov mentioned that preparations continue despite the challenges diplomats face.
The situation remains tense, with both Russia and Ukraine launching missile attacks overnight, resulting in casualties in Kyiv, including two children. Ukraine claimed to have used Storm Shadow missiles to attack a chemical facility in Russia. As the conflict continues, Trump has pushed for a resolution but has not enacted new sanctions against Russia. European defense shares increased after the summit delay, and Zelenskiy highlighted the need for sanctions and international support to address energy shortages as winter approaches.
With information from Reuters