With the participation of 14 out of 30 member countries, NATO has started "routine" military exercises that will last until October 30., To test its nuclear deterrence system in Europe, under tension with Russia, which has threatened to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

The military coalition said the exercises would involve about 60 aircraft, including fighter jets, surveillance and refueling aircraft.

The exercises will be attended by US long-range bombers "B-52", nicknamed "steadfast noon", as well as fighters capable of carrying nuclear warheads, but they do not include any live bombs.

The bulk of the war games will be held at least a thousand kilometers from the borders of Russia.

NATO said its exercises would be in Belgium this year, as well as over the North Sea and the United Kingdom.

It is reported that NATO does not allow the media to cover the exercises.

NATO had planned the exercises before Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops into Ukraine in February.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said last week: "it would be a very bad signal if we suddenly cancel routine, long-planned exercises because of the war in Ukraine.

"We must realize that the resolute and predictable behavior of NATO military forces is the best way to prevent escalation,"Stoltenberg explained.

It is worth noting that Russia usually conducts its annual maneuvers at about the same time, and NATO expects Moscow to test its nuclear power this month.