Russia has announced its troops have begun conducting nuclear exercises, which include the use of missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

Russia holds the exercises on an annual basis.
The drills on Wednesday were held under the command of President Vladimir Putin participating from the Kremlin online.

The Russian presidential office says the exercises involved the use of a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile, which was launched from a base in northern Russia.

Meanwhile, a Sineva ballistic missile was launched from a submarine in the Barents Sea.

The office stressed that the exercises are intended to ensure the country's strategic deterrent power, and that the tasks were completed in full.

The United States on Tuesday disclosed that Russia notified it of its plan to conduct the exercises.

A US State Department spokesperson told reporters the notification measures ensure the US will not be "taken by surprise" and "reduce the risk of misperception."

Western nations are believed to be keeping a close eye on Russia's nuclear forces as Moscow applies pressure on Ukraine and its allies with claims Kyiv plans to use a "dirty bomb."