Russia's President Vladimir Putin has taken a major step in the wake of rising tensions with Western nations following the invasion of Ukraine. The country's nuclear deterrent force has been ordered to remain on high alert. (nuclear deterrence forces on high alert) Earlier, in an important meeting with senior officials, Putin also drew attention to statements made by key NATO member states and the sanctions imposed on Putin or Russia by Western nations.
Putin has ordered Russia's defense minister and the head of the military's general staff. The nuclear deterrent force should be instructed to be vigilant and ready, he said.