NATO will carry out its annual nuclear response training exercise ‘Steadfast Noon’ in the coming week as planned, says Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

“This is routine training which happens every year to keep our deterrent safe, secure and effective,” Mr Stoltenberg said in Brussels.

“Russia knows that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought,” Mr Stoltenberg said, referring to the Kremlin’s “veiled nuclear threats.”

“We are closely monitoring Russia’s nuclear forces. We have not seen any changes in Russia’s posture, but we remain vigilant,” Mr Stoltenberg said.

Last October, NATO’s annual nuclear deterrence exercise took place over Southern Europe and involved dozens of aircraft. According to NATO, no live weapons were used.

(dpa/NAN)