Adnkronos (Adnkronos) –
NATO will conduct its annual nuclear exercise in Italy from October 13 to 23. The Alliance announced the exercise in a statement. "This exercise is a routine, long-planned training activity that is part of NATO's efforts to maintain its level of readiness," the Alliance emphasized in a statement.
The exercise, which does not involve the use of nuclear weapons, is not directed against any country, NATO recalled. It will involve approximately 17 NATO member states and will be similar in nature to those conducted in previous years, the Alliance also clarified.
Russia recently accused NATO of conducting “provocative” actions against the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, saying it was ready to use its “entire arsenal”.
NATO then denounced Moscow's "irresponsible nuclear rhetoric." NATO, however, has not observed any change in Russia's nuclear posture. "Of course, we monitor Russia very closely. We haven't observed any major changes in its posture that would cause concern," emphasized Nassima Barrows, NATO's nuclear policy chief.
The Air Force General Staff clarified that the Steadfast Noon exercise will be carried out “according to the Atlantic Alliance’s ordinary and routine planning” and “is not linked to specific crises or current international developments.
This is an annual and scheduled training activity, aimed at maintaining the readiness of the capabilities and procedures that contribute to the deterrence and defense of the Alliance."
The exercise is part of NATO's integrated strategic defense framework, in which Italy has participated as a member of the Alliance since 1949. Italy has already hosted the exercise six times: in 2010, 2013, 2014, 2018, 2021, and 2023. The exercise, which has been "long-planned," does not involve the use of any live weapons: the activities are solely aimed at verifying procedures, coordination, and security standards among allied forces.
international/foreign
webinfo@adnkronos.com (Web Info)