NATO has begun its annual nuclear exercises in northwestern Europe amid tensions over the war in Ukraine and President Vladimir Putin’s threat to use any means necessary to defend Russian territory.

Fourteen of NATO‘s 30 member countries were due to take part in the exercises.

The military alliance said the practice operation would involve around 60 aircraft including fighter jets and surveillance and refuelling planes.

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The majority of the war games will be held at least 1,000km (625 miles) from Russia’s borders.

Long-range US B-52 bombers launched from Minot Air Base in North Dakota will also take part in the manoeuvres, dubbed Steadfast Noon.

NATO said training flights will take place over Belgium, which is hosting the exercises this year, as well as the North Sea and the UK.

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The exercises involve jets capable of carrying nuclear warheads, but do not involve any live weapons.

They were planned before Mr Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine in February.

“The exercise, which runs until 30 October, is a routine, recurring training activity and it is not linked to any current world events,” the alliance declared on its webpage last week.

“This exercise helps ensure that the alliance’s nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective,” said NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu.

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Russia typically holds its own annual drills – dubbed Grom – around the same time of the year, and NATO is expecting Moscow to exercise its nuclear forces this month.

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