In response to recent remarks by Western officials about further involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, Russia's Defense Ministry has announced a series of drills involving tactical nuclear weapons. This marks the first time that Russia has publicly announced such drills, although its strategic nuclear forces regularly hold exercises.

According to a statement from the Defense Ministry, the initial stage of the drills will focus on practical training in the preparation and use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, including the nuclear-capable Kinzhal and Iskander missiles. These maneuvers are taking place in the Southern Military District, which encompasses Russian regions in the south, including the border with Ukraine, Crimea, and the regions illegally annexed by Russia.

The drills were announced on May 6, with the Defense Ministry stating that they were in response to "provocative statements and threats" made by certain Western officials regarding Russia. Tensions have been escalating, particularly after French President Emmanuel Macron hinted at the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine, and UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron mentioned the use of British long-range weapons to strike targets within Russia.

The Kremlin has labeled these comments as dangerous, further heightening the tension between Russia and NATO. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the remarks by Macron and other officials encouraged the need for the nuclear drills, deeming them as "a new round of escalation."

Meanwhile, EU countries have formally adopted a plan to utilize windfall profits from Russian central bank assets frozen in the EU to support Ukraine's defense, according to the Belgian government. Under the agreement, 90% of the proceeds will be channeled into an EU-operated fund for military aid against Russia's invasion, while the remaining 10% will be used to support Kyiv in other ways. It is estimated that these assets will generate profits amounting to 15-20 billion euros ($16.30-$21.70 billion) by 2027. Ukraine is expected to receive the first tranche in July.

The Group of Seven countries, including the EU, froze approximately $300 billion worth of Russian financial assets following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Since then, discussions within the G7 have revolved around how to use these funds to assist Ukraine.

As tensions continue to mount, the international community closely watches the situation, hoping for diplomatic resolutions to de-escalate the conflict and avoid further destabilization in the region.