ISTANBUL

Moscow on Tuesday said it is carrying out military exercises using Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles launchers capable of carrying a nuclear payload.

A statement by the Russian Defense Ministry said military personnel in the exercises are performing intensive maneuvering actions, including the practice of tasks in forest areas that aim to increase the stealth of the launchers.

The exercises are the second to take place this month, with the Russian Defense Ministry having previously declared such exercises on July 5.

Russia has recently increased its number of military exercises involving the use of nuclear weapons, some of which have also involved the participation of military personnel from neighboring Belarus.

Last month, Russia and Belarus began the second stage of joint non-strategic nuclear exercises, during which troops from both countries trained on the use of such arms in combat.​​​​​​​