Indian Troops Participate in Russia-Led ‘Zapad-2025’ Exercise, Europe Concerned Over Nuclear Drill

International Desk | PNN
Indian troops have participated in the ‘Zapad-2025’ military exercise, organized jointly by Russia and Belarus. On Tuesday (September 17), Russian state news agency TASS reported that 65 Indian military personnel were present at the exercise. The Indian Ministry of Defence has also confirmed the matter.

As part of the exercise, Russia and Belarus practiced the use of strategic nuclear weapons. Additionally, the ‘Orlanic’ hypersonic missiles, used last year in the Ukraine war, were also showcased. Western military analysts see this as a direct message to Europe.

This is not India’s first participation. In 2021, India joined an exercise in Russia’s Volgograd region to practice counter-terrorism and conventional warfare strategies. However, this year’s exercise took place at a time when India–United States relations are strained due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Trade disputes between Washington and New Delhi have also intensified, particularly due to high tariffs imposed during President Trump’s administration and India’s oil imports from Russia, which have complicated relations with the U.S.

Meanwhile, Belarus’ Ministry of Defense confirmed that the exercise included the use of nuclear weapons and missile deployments. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated,
"We are practicing the use of all types of weapons—from small arms to nuclear warheads. If these weapons are in Belarus, we must be skilled in their use."

Analysts believe that through this exercise, Moscow aims to instill fear in Europe, which has already raised concerns among NATO and neighboring countries.