Brussels: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte has said that the alliance’s recent nuclear exercises clearly demonstrated its ability to defend itself and maintain a credible nuclear deterrent in the face of growing threats from Russia.

Speaking after the conclusion of Nato’s annual nuclear readiness drills, Rutte said he was “absolutely confident” that the exercise showed the alliance’s strength and unity. “When Russia uses dangerous and reckless nuclear rhetoric, our people must know that there is no need to panic,” he said.

“Nato has a strong nuclear deterrent.”

The exercise, which involved several member countries, tested the alliance’s capacity to coordinate and respond in the event of a nuclear crisis. It included fighter jets, bombers, and support aircraft practicing scenarios designed to ensure readiness and reliability of Nato’s nuclear forces.

Rutte also repeated the long-standing principle that nuclear war must never be fought. “A nuclear war can never be won and must never be fought,” he said, echoing the alliance’s consistent message that deterrence aims to prevent conflict, not provoke it.

The drills took place amid rising tensions between Nato and Russia. Moscow has recently conducted its own large-scale military and nuclear-capable exercises with Belarus, raising concerns among European nations. Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that Moscow could use nuclear weapons if it faces attacks from conventional missiles or from any state allied with an enemy.

In response, Nato leaders have sought to reassure citizens that the alliance remains united and prepared. Officials said the exercises were routine and defensive in nature but carried added significance this year due to heightened geopolitical tensions.

Rutte’s remarks served both as reassurance to Nato member states and as a warning to potential adversaries. His message underlined that the alliance remains committed to collective defence, including the nuclear umbrella that protects all member countries.

Observers say that Nato’s emphasis on deterrence is also a signal to maintain political and military unity as the war in Ukraine continues and as Russia’s nuclear threats become more aggressive. The drills and statements like Rutte’s are meant to deter escalation by showing that Nato is ready, capable, and resolute.

While the exercise did not reveal specific operational details, experts note that such drills test critical systems, communication networks, and decision-making processes that ensure the alliance can respond swiftly in any situation.

For now, Nato leaders hope that the show of strength will prevent further provocation and reinforce stability. As Rutte concluded, “Our deterrence is not just about weapons. It is about unity, credibility, and our shared commitment to peace.”