Russia carried out a major nuclear training exercise on Wednesday, showcasing intercontinental ballistic missiles, just a day after the United States announced a delay in plans for a second summit between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.

As reported in Reuters, a video released by the Kremlin showed General Valery Gerasimov, head of the Russian General Staff, briefing Putin on the drills. The exercises are seen as a reminder of Russia’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, where Moscow and Kyiv continued overnight missile strikes that left six dead, including two children, in Kyiv and nearby areas.

The U.S. decision to postpone the summit came after a call between top diplomats, with the White House citing that Trump did not want a “wasted meeting.” Russian officials emphasized that preparations for the summit continue, but thorough planning is required before a date can be set. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stressed that “preparations take time,” while Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov acknowledged the complexity of arranging the talks.

Russia’s stance on a peace deal, demanding Ukraine cede full control of southeastern Donbas, effectively rejected Trump’s proposal to freeze frontlines at their current positions. Meanwhile, Ukraine responded with strikes on Russian targets using Franco-British Storm Shadow missiles.

The renewed military activity and diplomatic uncertainty sent European defence stocks higher, as governments continue to increase support for Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, highlighting the need for stronger international backing, called on partners to provide additional energy support ahead of winter.