Russia announces nuclear drills in response to 'provocative' comments by Western officials

NORAD confirmed it detected four Russian military aircraft in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone on Thursday, but the aircraft didn't enter U.S. airspace. Russia said Monday it plans to hold drills simulating the use of battlefield nuclear weapons amid rising tensions following comments by senior Western officials about the possibility of deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine. The announcement came on the eve of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inauguration to a fifth term in office and in a week when Moscow on Thursday will celebrate Victory Day, its most important secular holiday, marking its defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The drills are a response to "provocative statements and threats of certain Western officials regarding the Russian Federation," the Defense Ministry said in a statement. PUTIN WARNS THE WEST THAT RUSSIA IS'READY' FOR NUCLEAR WAR: 'WEAPONS EXIST IN ORDER TO USE THEM' It was the first time Russia has publicly announced drills involving tactical nuclear weapons, although its strategic nuclear forces regularly hold exercises.