MOSCOW -- Russian President Vladimir Putin made a visit to the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk on Monday to witness the commissioning of new nuclear submarines, highlighting the country's nuclear prowess in the midst of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The trip comes just three days after Putin announced his intention to seek another six-year term as president, highlighting his focus on military actions. During a Kremlin award ceremony, Putin declared his decision to run in the upcoming presidential election on March 17, a race he is widely expected to win.

Putin's visit to the Sevmash shipyard in the northwestern Archangelsk region aimed to underscore Russia's commitment to bolstering its nuclear forces amidst tensions with the U.S. and NATO allies over Ukraine.

At the shipyard, Putin oversaw the raising of the navy's flag on two newly built submarines - the Emperor Alexander III and the Krasnoyarsk, both symbolizing Russia's dedication to its naval capabilities.

The Emperor Alexander III is the seventh Borei-class atomic-powered submarine to be launched, each equipped with 16 nuclear-tipped Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles. Putin announced that construction is underway for three more submarines of this class, solidifying Russia's nuclear triad, which includes land-based nuclear missiles and nuclear-armed strategic bombers.

Meanwhile, the Krasnoyarsk, a nuclear-powered submarine of the Yasen type, was also commissioned. Armed with cruise missiles and torpedoes, it is specifically designed to hunt enemy submarines and engage ground targets. Putin shared that five additional Yasen-class submarines are currently under construction.

In addition to witnessing the commissioning of the submarines, Putin visited the Admiral Kasatonov frigate of Russia's Northern Fleet. This highly advanced vessel is armed with the new Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles, further displaying Russia's naval capabilities.

During his visit, Putin emphasized his commitment to modernize the Russian navy and strengthen the country's military forces. The trip to the Sevmash shipyard not only showcased Russia's nuclear might but also sent a clear message to Western powers regarding its determination to protect its security interests.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, with Russia justifying its actions as a response to perceived threats from the West, tensions remain high between Russia and its Western counterparts. While Ukraine and its allies denounce Russia's military intervention as an act of aggression, Putin's visit to the shipyard emphasized his focus on maintaining and advancing Russia's military strength.

With the commissioning of new nuclear submarines and plans for further expansion, Putin aims to solidify Russia's position as a global military power. The visit to Sevmash serves as a reminder of Russia's determination to pursue its strategic objectives and safeguard its national security interests.